On June 29, 2025, Church of God volunteers, community members, and local leaders came together at the Mount Vernon train station to take part in the Global Hope Challenge through the Erasing Plastic Footprints Campaign. The event focused on removing litter and improving a well-used but often overlooked public space. The volunteers were able to collect 23 bags of trash and other miscellaneous items like abandoned tires, bicycles, and shopping carts.
The train station serves many daily visitors but doesn’t always get the attention it needs for proper upkeep. By clearing trash and tidying the area, volunteers helped make the station cleaner and more welcoming for everyone who passes through.
Working Together for Mount Vernon
Shayne Brooks, Director of Sustainability for the City of Mount Vernon, and Ana Colorado, Water Filtration Operator for the City of New York, joined the event to support the volunteers and share encouraging words. He said, “It’s always good to see volunteers. It’s something they like to do but often don’t get the recognition. I thank you and the city thanks you. Volunteering is very important. We’re open for partnership, and I hope this is not the last time we get to partner.”
Ana Colorado added, “Cleanups definitely help, especially now that the city is battling with cloud bursts and a lot of water. Litter can block sewers and cause flooding. It’s a small effort, but consistency matters.”
First-time volunteer Kiana Brubaker, a Fleet & Transport Analyst at PepsiCo, shared, “It was a great experience today. A different way to spend your Sunday and come out with the community.”
To view more volunteer events, please visit the activities page.
