Each year my son and I clean up the ditch areas next to our house. We collect bottles and wrappers and cups and car parts. The amount we collect in a small area is unbelievable. This Earth Day, think about cleaning up your small part of the highway/street. Take along black trash bags, some work gloves, and a safety vest. To get even more involved in highway clean-up, consider joining the Adopt a Highway Program sponsored by INDOT. You can find more information by visiting https://www.in.gov/indot/current-programs/green-initiatives/roadside-management-program/adopt-a-highway-program/ or by reading this brochure https://www.in.gov/indot/files/Adopt-A-Highway-Brochure.pdf.

There are also organizations in our community that pair perfectly with Earth Day: Caring Clothing Co-Op and Community Reserve. Both are located in New Carlisle.  Caring Clothing Co-Op accepts donations of clothing and household items. They can be reached at 574.654.8829 or by email caringclothingcoop@yahoo.com. The Community Reserve takes donations of gently used furniture. They are a non-profit, all-volunteer furniture bank that helps people establish a more comfortable home. They can be reached at 574.654.7898. Consider donating to both of these organizations as you are spring cleaning. You will be helping people in our community at the same time!