Dozens of volunteers hopped over and climbed down the near 7-foot sea-wall with the help of a ladder at Astoria Park in Queens. They were just some of the thousands of volunteers who came to help on It's My Park Day. (The Epoch Times)
The twice-a-year event focused on waterfront parks this spring. In Astoria Park, which overlooks the East River, a shoreline cleanup was organized.
The morning was misty with news of rain, but it didn't stop the volunteers from coming in droves. High school students, girl scouts, families, and passersby, carefully stepped over the fence, and climbed a ladder down to the rocks, where trash and garbage awaited them.
Using long garbage grabbers, the volunteers made quick work of any cans and bags that once lined the shore. Curious passersby and joggers would stop, look over the fence, and nod appreciatively before continuing along their way.
The event was hosted by Green Shores NYC and Astoria Park Alliance. Other volunteer community groups throughout the city also lent a hand.
People of all ages came to show their support by helping clean waterways and parks throughout the five boroughs. At Astoria Park in Queens, close to 400 people came to celebrate the day. (The Epoch Times)
“If you know you have a part in keeping your park clean it's an investment in the park and yourself,” Ellman said, who added that once they start helping, “Many people feel proud of themselves and their communities.”
Bringing an extra dash of color to the day, activities were held throughout the park. Council Member Peter Vallone was among the many who joined in a yoga class given by Queens Holistic Moms. Others enjoyed tours through the park's butterfly garden, and water safety classes, and other activities.
One of the groups, Children for Children, worked with children to make environment-themed coloring books, which will be given as gifts for kids who are in hospitals.
“We want each child to learn that even if they're small they can make a difference in the world,” said Abby Hubers, a program associate for Children for Children.
Several immigrant organizations also participated. Fittingly, May 16 was also the annual day of service for the American Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee, bringing in an extra wave of helping hands.
“This is what being American is about—giving back,” said Karim Eissawi, a youth coordinator with the American Mideast Leadership Network.
Eissawi explained that often immigrants to the U.S. have difficulty finding ways to help with their local parks and waterways, often due to different cultures and social climates in the countries where they originate.
“It's a new thing for them,” Eissawi said, adding that once they do get involved it becomes almost second nature. “Many come from farming backgrounds. All this clicks when it comes to the people.”
