ASEZ WAO volunteers partnered with the Suffolk Department of Public Works for a Pitchkettle Road Cleanup in Suffolk, VA. The event began with a cheer to energize the volunteers: “Save the Earth from A to Z, We Are One Family! ASEZ WAO, ASEZ WAO!” As soon as the cheer ended, rain began to pour down. Despite the weather, volunteers immediately set out along the roadway to remove litter and debris.
By the end of the cleanup, volunteers had successfully removed 46 bags of litter, 50 tires, and two abandoned TVs. Their efforts created a visible improvement for residents and helped prevent trash from reaching local waterways.
Suffolk Public Works Partnership Strengthens Community Cleanup
Volunteers were joined by Wayne Jones, Coordinator for the Suffolk Department of Public Works. He emphasized the importance of events like this, explaining that trash often ends up in waterways and that plastic pollution can harm wildlife and the food chain. He also noted that community cleanups are simple actions that can be fun, bring people together, and make a real difference in the local environment.
Pitchkettle Road Cleanup in Suffolk, VA: Rain Didn’t Stop Volunteers
Logan Stovall, an ASEZ WAO volunteer, explained the importance behind the cleanup. He said, “The reason why we’re out here doing this as a group and as a family is because we really want to improve the lives of the people living here in Suffolk. By cleaning up the trash, we are supporting the ASEZ WAO Green Earth Project’s mission to enhance local environments, reduce pollution, and promote a sustainable future for our community.”
He added that hands-on service is one of the most practical ways to build awareness and long-term change. When litter is left on roadsides, it can wash into storm drains and waterways, harm animals, and make public spaces feel neglected. By showing up consistently—especially in tough weather—volunteers hoped to model environmental responsibility and encourage others to take small actions that add up over time.
Many participants also noted that working together as a group made the experience more meaningful. The cleanup created space for families and neighbors to connect, support one another, and take pride in the community they share. ASEZ WAO emphasized that cleanups like this are part of the organization’s broader Green Earth mission to promote healthier local environments, reduce pollution, and support a sustainable future for the next generation.
To view more ASEZ WAO activities in Virginia, please click here.
