On May 25, 2025, over 60 ASEZ student volunteers gathered to clean Webster Avenue in the Bronx 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.
The event began with a short orientation to outline the day’s activities. Volunteers then moved along Webster Avenue, picking up trash, clearing debris, and enhancing a public space used by many community members daily. The cleanup was part of ASEZ’s global efforts to help make communities safer and healthier.
Coming Together for a Better Community
Volunteers from five colleges joined as one team to help the Bronx. Their work encouraged pride in the neighborhood and showed others that change can start with small, consistent actions.
“Participating in something that makes us feel safer to live in our community is something that the world can’t buy. It can only come from the heart, and it is truly heartfelt,” said 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.”
The cleanup supported an important ASEZ initiative, Zero Plastic 2040. It also supported the “Don’t Dump on the Bronx” campaign created by the Bronx Borough President. It was a strong example of how students are stepping up and giving back with care, purpose, and unity.
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