Valley volunteers roll up their sleeves for Earth Day weekend cleanups

Earth Day weekend was filled with celebrations and service across the Valley, as volunteers gathered to clean up parks, protect natural spaces, and highlight the importance of environmental stewardship.

In Youngstown, the Youngstown Skatepark Association organized a cleanup at Lincoln Park on the city’s East Side. Founder Zack Felger said efforts like this are vital to making recreation spaces feel welcoming and preserving their beauty for the future.

"This is one of our most beautiful recreation spaces here in Youngstown," Felger said. "Keeping trash out of these green spaces is vital to the overall success of the area."

City staff also joined in. Bob Burke, Program Coordinator for Youngstown, said a clean environment isn't just about appearances — it can drive growth.

"By not littering, you get more people that want to have their businesses in your city," Burke said. "It also makes people want to move here."

Meanwhile, in Girard, attention turned to the Mahoning River, where Friends of the Mahoning River hosted a watershed cleanup. Peggy Gollings, a longtime kayaker and member of the group, said protecting the river is personal for many volunteers.

"If you go out in nature and do nature activities, you should take it with you, pack it out. If you bring it with you, take it out," Gollings said.

She added that when people see the river free of debris, they are often surprised by its natural beauty.

"When I show my videos of kayaking to people and they ask, 'Where's that?' I tell them it's the Mahoning," Gollings said. "They're amazed at how beautiful it is when it's cleaned."

Cleanups and celebrations were also held throughout Mill Creek MetroParks and Hermitage, with neighbors working side-by-side to care for parks, trails, and waterways. 

Organizers hope the Earth Day efforts serve as a reminder that protecting the environment starts close to home — and that the spirit of Earth Day can continue year-round.