Restoring the Community with Caring Hands Community Cleanup Day with Advocates for Appalachia

Restoring the Community with Caring

Hands Community Cleanup

Day with Advocates for Appalachia

Gideon Thompson

The Ashland Beacon

When taking a winter drive through the Appalachia region, one may see open rolling hills clustered with barren tree lines and frost-covered pines, inviting us to gaze upon its glory. Snuggled in the hills are the cities and communities that make the mountains and foothills their home. Ashland, Kentucky, boasts one of the most colorful and diverse parks in the area, with Central Park located within the historic district of downtown Ashland and also home to the Native Mounds found within its gates. Rich in history and home to massive native tree species, Central Park is a place of wonder that invites everyone in with its natural beauty and spacious grounds. Each year, thousands of people line the sidewalks and streets to take in the winter sights and sounds presented in the park by the City of Ashland. From Old Man Winter to the toy factory, there is a Winter Wonderland display awaiting eager onlookers in recognition of the holiday spirit.

As patrons visit the park and take breaks, items are sometimes left behind in places other than the garbage cans. Being responsible for our lunch debris and maintaining a healthy environment in the park is key to furthering its beauty and preserving the natural aura it provides. Having developed their name out of love for the Appalachian region and the people connected to this area, Advocates for Appalachia have worked together to support our towns and cities while networking to build a safer and more productive Appalachia.

Scheduled for Dec. 20, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., Advocates for Appalachia have organized an event that includes everyone who needs to stretch their legs and arms by helping clean up Ashland Central Park. Where some may have left refuse behind, we can work together to straighten the park up for the holidays. The cleanup is scheduled to begin at the Native Mounds located near Crabbe Elementary School, as volunteers make their way around the park gathering trash to be disposed of. Gloves, garbage bags, and fresh water will be provided, allowing ample hydration and access to necessary materials for the job. The weather has been cold and blustery, so be sure to bundle up and keep your feet dry and safe with appropriate attire.

If you are interested in continuing support through Advocates for Appalachia and the local area, they have a Facebook page that is updated regularly and covers cleanup opportunities held every third Saturday of each month. Also available through Advocates for Appalachia is a hosted book club that meets every third Thursday of each month. Expected to roll out in the new year is a movie discussion night for those who are film-savvy. Contact may also be made by calling or texting 606-356-6534. Contributors and organizers of Advocates for Appalachia include Shawna McCowan, Kathleen Filkins, and Rachel Wilson, who have dedicated their time to the Appalachian region and the people who live here. Based in Boyd County, this local advocacy group has their hearts and hands active in support of the community as they move into the future with hopes of preserving one of our nation’s oldest mountain ranges and the cultures connected to them. Keeping our environment clean and safe is always easier when we work together to make a difference.