Volunteers are needed for Vandergrift’s annual Spring Cleanup, scheduled for Saturday, April 30.

The boroughwide community cleanup returns after a two-year hiatus caused by the covid-19 pandemic, said co-organizer and Vandergrift Councilwoman Marilee Kessler.

Co-organizers include Vandergrift Police officer Joe Gray, the Vandergrift Improvement Program, Vandergrift Neighborhood Watch, borough officials and employees, and Vandergrift Volunteer Fire Departments.

“We can finally come together again,” Kessler said. “This is the same cleanup we’ve done over the last five years or so. We thank everyone that will come out and we encourage folks to make it a family affair.”

Cleanup hours are 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Participants are asked to show up at 8:30 a.m. at the Vandergrift Volunteer Fire Department No. 1 parking lot, located at 278 Franklin Ave.

Cleanup crews are asked to bring their own gloves, shovels and rakes. Organizers will provide trash bags.

Borough officials are encouraging those unable to attend the cleanup to spend time cleaning up their own block by bagging up the “memories of winter.”

Targeted areas slated for cleanup are Franklin and Kennedy parks, in addition to a sweep of the business and historic district, including the parking lot along Columbia Avenue.

Vandergrift resident Katie Vance plans to participate with her two young sons.

“I want my sons to learn to care for their town,” Vance said. “I believe it’s important to teach kids that our little efforts can help make a big difference.”

Participants are asked to leave their bagged trash along the sidewalk of their residence for pickup and to notify organizers by texting 724-454-1625.

Large items, such as televisions, tires, furniture and electronics, will not be accepted.

“This is just for leaves, branches, typical debris and general cleanup items,” Kessler said.

Vandergrift Councilman Jody Sarno plans to participate.

“I’d like to see people focus on areas they’re passionate about,” Sarno said. “I think you get better results and involvement when people focus on areas they care about.”

For more information, call 724-454-1625.

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