Great American Cleanup

The Great American Cleanup (GAC) is an annual event started in 1999 by Keep America Beautiful. Each year millions of Georgians and other Americans across the nation come out to improve their communities by picking up litter in parks, waterways, and roadways; planting trees and flowers to beautify public spaces; and holding recycling drives and environmental education events.
​
“Green Starts Here,” has been a rallying cry that encourages volunteer groups, community leaders, and people of all ages and walks of life to create more sustainable communities through their efforts as volunteers as well as through their daily choices and actions. It also reflects KAB’s long legacy of community improvement activities.  Keep America Beautiful was ‘green’ long before it became fashionable!

“Community greening began with the beautification movement of the 1950s and 60s.  Even then, Keep America Beautiful was leading the charge,” said Matthew McKenna, president and CEO of Keep America Beautiful.  “Today, we realize that these efforts don’t just create beautiful places, they create a healthier environment.   They build stronger communities.  They inspire sustainable behaviors and motivate people to volunteer.  They improve the quality of life of local citizens. The Great American Cleanup captures the energy and enthusiasm of today’s powerful and growing green movement.”

Each year we have a wealth of local community partners who help make the Great American Cleanup happen in our community.  Last year over 80 businesses, schools, churches, neighborhoods and civic groups joined our Great American Cleanup Team.
​
Great American Cleanup dates are usually held in the March through May months. Each municipality joins in by sponsoring a city cleanup day!

Joining in these efforts is one significant way to instill pride in our community. Please join us. Green Starts Here! Green starts with you!