Dorian Adams, center, and Maverick, 5, both of Monroe, scramble to collect litter during last month's monthly cleanup on Saturday, Sept. 24 in downtown Monroe. Dorian's mom Rachel is at left and Maverick's mom Heather Sevier is in the background with her stroller. Sevier, commenting on the cleanup, said,”I like to clean and it’s good to clean up our community.”
Jim Scolman
MONROE — The Monroe Chamber of Commerce began organizing a monthly clean up in downtown.
Monroe Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Janelle Drews spoke over the phone about the origin, purpose and details of the cleanup.
The Downtown Monroe Association used to organize a cleanup but it disbanded a year ago or so, Drews said. “So, as the director of the Chamber, I wanted to make sure our businesses downtown felt supported,” she continued, and went on to say that she wanted to ensure that Monroe’s downtown area was clean, beautified and inviting to pedestrians and anyone else looking to visit.
The group meets rain or shine on the last Saturday of every month. They meet at Sharinabean's on Main Street at 10 a.m.
"It normally takes about an hour" for the clean up, Drews said.
The next clean up is Oct. 29 at 10 a.m., the Chamber confirmed.
Drews said the Chamber provides all the needed supplies for volunteers taking part in the cleanup, including trash bags, gloves, and hand sanitizer. Volunteers are asked not to pick up anything hazardous.
More information, including any about jobs, membership or other volunteer opportunities can be found at www.choosemonroe.com
