2023 West Side Community Cleanup
A neighborhood tradition by now, the annual West Side Community Cleanup took place last weekend on streets and sidewalks and in parks and alleys. At Swift, we often find ourselves involved with the cleanup in more ways than one – this year was no different.
Jes Slaydon-Gutowski, president (and newest owner!) of Swift Printing, worked on the committee to help bring the event to life, we were the official printing sponsor for the event, and Jes and kids joined in the fun as volunteers. So, let’s hear about the day from Jes herself!
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A CLEANUP VOLUNTEER
Every year, the cleanup takes place in April and weather is always a big, worrisome factor. In fact, we talked about it on just about every committee call and meeting. We’ve seen it all over the years and if you live in the Midwest, you get it. But good news! We were blessed with a sunny day perfect for the task at hand: pick up all the trash.
Parks and Jessica Gutowski Slaydon cleaning up trash under the Red Lion Vintage Neon.
I set out with Dax and Parks to get cleaning! With two littles in tow, we had a surprising amount of fun picking up trash. If you think your kids won’t be into it, think again. We were able to fill a couple bags up as we made our way to John Ball Zoo for the after party.
I volunteered to help with check-in for the after party. It was seamless. Mostly due to the super prepared planning co-chairs, Caylie Peet and Timothy Gillis!
Did you know you get a free meal and free adult beverages for volunteering?
At check-in, it was awesome to meet so many of our neighbors, put faces to names and make some new friends, too! We also printed custom stickers and Dax, my son, handed them out to the volunteers. This year, we welcomed over 600 volunteers that worked to clean 11 different districts in Grand Rapids.
Want one of these stickers? Stop by our office for one complimentary sticker while supplies last.
The after party is always hosted at John Ball Zoo and features music, giveaways, food trucks and restaurants, and community partners and resources tables. It’s a time to meet your neighbors, support local businesses, and learn about resources in our community. The kids loved the bounce house and other kid-friendly activities that were set up.
GET INVOLVED & GET CLEANING
Overall, this year’s event was a great success and we are continually proud to be part of this community and give back in a variety of ways.
If you missed this year’s event, it’s okay – you can still join in the effort. Grab some gloves, a trash bag or a bucket, and set out on your street or a route you drive often. Pick up everything you can find for a block or two. You’ll be so shocked at how much you can do in just 30 minutes.
Pictured is Caylie Peet and Timothy Gillis co-chairs for the WestSide Community Clean Up.
Want to be part of the team that makes the West Side Community Cleanup a possibility? Send an email to Caylie Peet and Timothy Gillis at wsccinfo@westgrand.org. There is always a need for committee members, day-of volunteers and corporate or small business sponsors. It’s truly a community event powered by community members so we need YOU!
