The deep connection between individuals and their surroundings is unmistakable. Whether one lives in the city or country, the presence of clean landscapes and waterways instills community pride—especially when residents and businesses pitch in to maintain their communal areas. This year, picking up litter, improving community spaces and reducing stormwater pollution is easier than ever thanks to free and low-cost community resources from askHRgreen.org.
“Studies confirm that beautiful places are not only environmentally healthy, but they also contribute to our region’s economy and quality of life. These are better places to raise families, start a business and go to school,” said Katie Cullipher, with askHRgreen.org. “Everyone can play a role in keeping Hampton Roads clean, and we have the tools to help you get the job done.”
Residents and businesses can tap into the following resources, while enjoying the benefits of neighborhood camaraderie and employee team building:
- Neighborhood litter cleanup tools – Rock your community block by inviting neighbors to an organized litter cleanup. Through the askHRgreen.org Team Up 2 Clean Up program, volunteers can receive the supplies they will need, such as litter grabbers, trash bags and safety equipment. This program is always available, but during the annual Great American Cleanup (GAC) event, March 22-23, 2024, residents can be part of a larger transformation that takes place across Hampton Roads. Check for this year’s GAC details here.
- Community pet waste station grants – Cleaning up after pets is crucial not just for maintaining a tidy neighborhood but also for safeguarding local waterways. Pet waste on the ground becomes a major source of pollution when it rains, carrying it into storm drains and on to rivers, lakes and streams. Make this the year to apply for an askHRgreen.org Pet Waste Station Grant, open to any neighborhood, community group or property management company that can install and manage these spiffy stations.
- Bay Star Homes and Business programs – By pledging to make small changes that will have a large impact on the environment, residents and businesses can be part of the Bay Star Homes and/or Bay Star Business programs. After pledging and signing up, participants receive a welcome packet with green tips, info and a yard flag or window cling to show their pride in clean waterways. Program offerings and incentives differ by locality, but a universal benefit is getting early access to sign up for popular askHRgreen.org workshops.
- Educational mini-grant program – Since 2011, askHRgreen.org has offered environmental education mini grants of up to $500 for Hampton Roads educators to use in their classrooms and clubs and for community youth group engagement. The funding covers environmentally themed projects and may be used for a portion of or an entire project. There is no deadline to apply, and applications are accepted year-round, as long as funding is available. Check for details here.
- Fundraiser car wash kits – Fundraiser car washes are a popular way to raise money for school sports, clubs and causes. But all that dirty, soapy water entering storm drains can negatively impact local water quality. askHRgreen.org recommends partnering with a commercial car wash for fundraising needs or checking out its free fundraiser car wash kit. The kit helps capture polluted runoff and directs it away from storm drains and into grassy areas. Learn how to check out a kit for your next fundraiser car wash at this link.
- Rain barrel workshops – For an easy, affordable way to reduce your water bill and protect local water quality, snag a spot in one of the popular askHRgreen.org rain barrel workshops. Held at locations throughout Hampton Roads, attendees pay $25 for the rain barrel to assemble during the workshop and install at home. The workshops also offer valuable knowledge on best practices for maintaining the barrel and general waterway-friendly lawn care tips. Look for workshop announcements by following the askHRgreen.org blog.