On May 25, 2025, the Bronx chapter of ASEZ kicked off its summer cleanup campaign on Webster Avenue near Gun Hill Road. Over 60 ASEZ student volunteers gathered for the cleanup as part of the ASEZ Zero Plastic 2040 Campaign. Students came from Monroe University, Lehman College, Westchester Community College, FIT, and Mercy University. David Ahmed Coulibaly of the Bronx Borough President’s Office, Director of Community Affairs and Disability Services Facilitator, also took part.
Where Local Action Meets Global Vision
Before gloves went on, volunteers gathered for a short orientation. New participants learned about ASEZ’s global mission and how this event marked the kickoff of the Bronx chapter’s involvement in the worldwide Reduce Crime Together campaign, which focuses on safer streets through public maintenance and community engagement, and the Zero Plastic 2040 campaign, a global initiative aimed at reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainability. Alongside leading these efforts locally, Bronx ASEZ volunteers also supported the Don’t Dump on the Bronx campaign, developed in partnership with Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson, which seeks to reduce illegal dumping and foster neighborhood care.
The Impact Made on Webster Avenue
By the end of the event, volunteers had collected 83 bags of trash and removed major debris—including three couches, three TVs, two tires, a windshield, and even a mop. The area, once filled with clutter and ignored by many, suddenly felt different. Drivers honked in support. Neighbors waved from windows. One local business owner even brought pizza for the volunteers.
“Participating in something that makes our community feel safer is something that the world can’t buy—it comes from the heart and is truly heartfelt,” shared Shawnette Marshall, a student from SUNY Fredonia.
David Ahmed Coulibaly shared his thanks: “I want to say thank you again to ASEZ. Thank you for changing the world and creating a safer world and Bronx through engaging the younger generation with public service. The mission of ASEZ is something that aligns with the goals of Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson.”
Another resident added, “I actually feel safe to park my car here now.” Though change takes time, ASEZ members made it clear that they’re not stopping. As volunteer David Ahmed Coulibaly put it, “We’re not just doing this today—this is only the kickoff!”
While the trash is gone, the bigger goal is ongoing care. That’s why ASEZ is committed to coming back and staying involved.
To view more ASEZ volunteer events, please visit the activities page.
