April 24, 2007

By: Chris O'Brian

The Edmonton Chamber of Commerce is once again a proud participant of the City of Edmonton’s second annual Capital City Clean Up campaign. The campaign is a volunteer-driven litter prevention program that enlists the services of residents, businesses and non-profit groups during the summer months.

“Every block that’s blowing with litter looks totally trashy,” one visitor downtown recently pointed out. “And trashy streets look dangerous to me. I just keep going,” she said.

The program asks participants to “adopt-a-block” in their community or business area.

“We’re really hoping our business community pools their resources,” says the chamber’s community development spokesperson Lori Farquharson. “We’re encouraging our chamber members and businesses everywhere to really show their civic pride this year. Keeping our city clean is good for Edmonton’s reputation and especially good for business.”

Last year volunteers reported their blocks were “tangibly” cleaner and more inviting than those that failed to participate in the program.

“When we’re out picking litter, it has a contagious effect on others,” says Jasmine Hohenstein, a 2006 residential block captain. “If everyone picks up just one piece, what a difference that makes!”

Under the program Block Captains agree to enlist local support to help keep their adopted block neat and tidy throughout the summer. Duties include litter pickup and sidewalk sweeping. Cleanup kits and gifts will be provided.

Volunteer forms are available online at www.edmonton.ca (780) 496-8100 for more information.