Leechburg Recycling Center could use more volunteers for eco-friendly program
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Calling all volunteers.
The Leechburg Recycling Center, near the high school football field on Logan Avenue Extension, depends on a dedicated core group of about 10 volunteers for its operations.
But more volunteers are needed, said Nancy Bono, Leechburg councilwoman and recycling chairwoman.
“I’m tired,” said Bono, 84, the oldest volunteer. “We need more people to help when we can’t be here.”
Bono said the average age of the volunteers is in the 70s.
At 64, Debbie Canzano of Gilpin is the youngest and newest volunteer. She’s been recycling since she was a student at Leechburg Area High School.
“It’s important to me. I’m happy to be here,” Canzano said.
The center operates from 8 to 11 a.m. Mondays through Fridays.
Bono said anyone wishing to volunteer is welcome to drop in. Volunteers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
The center separates cardboard, glass, plastic and paper, which are sold. Proceeds go to the borough’s general fund.
In 2017, the center processed about 500,000 pounds of recyclables.
Debbie Dykes, 69, of Allegheny Township said the hygiene factor may be affecting the low turnout in volunteers.
“It’s dirty and smelly sometimes,” Dykes said. “Some of my friends find it disgusting — going through other people’s trash. I guess it takes a certain type of person.”
But for Dykes and her fellow helpers, camaraderie and companionship are volunteer perks.
“We have a nice group of people here,” said John Linkes, 69. “It’s a chance to get out, and it makes you feel good at the end of the day.”
Volunteers said they often receive coffee and goodies from the public during drop-offs.
Propane heaters, a garage door and an insulated wall were added by council in 2017 to improve working conditions.
Volunteers are encouraged to wear gloves, seasonally appropriate attire and comfortable sneakers.
Bono reminds the community that outside drop-offs during non-business hours are prohibited.
Leechburg Mayor Wayne Dobos said he’d like to see more volunteers step up.
“Recycling is a very important environmental issue, and Leechburg got on the bandwagon decades ago,” Dobos said. “The recycling center would have to close down without volunteers, and the items would then go to a landfill. We are trying to prevent that from happening.”