Keeping Palos Park clean takes a community effort, and residents did their part Saturday, Nov. 14, during the village’s Fall Rid Litter Day.
Hosted by the Palos Park Recreation and Parks Department and the Beautification Committee, the cleanup began at the Palos Park Recreation Center, 8901 W. 123rd St.
The fall event was added following strong participation in the village’s annual Spring Rid Litter Day. Mayor Nicole Milovich-Walters previously said the success of the spring cleanup inspired organizers to bring residents together for another event in the fall.
“I’m so pleased that we have had such strong participation with our annual Spring Rid Litter Day that it inspired us to organize another Fall Rid Litter Day,” Milovich-Walters said. “It was a wonderful opportunity for residents to contribute to the beauty of our Village, Palos Park. While many of us do our part regularly, dedicating an entire day for the community to come together really strengthens our bond.”
The village’s first Rid Litter Day was organized by the Beautification Committee in 1997. Since then, volunteers have collected an estimated three tons of litter.
More than 40 people typically participate in the spring cleanup each year. The fall event provides another opportunity for residents, local organizations and volunteers to help maintain the village’s streets and surrounding natural areas.
Removing roadside litter also helps protect wildlife, waterways and the environment while preserving the natural beauty of Palos Park, said event organizers.
