The Chicago Department of Streets and Sanitation invites residents and community groups to volunteer to help revitalize their neighborhoods by participating in the 2013 Clean and Green citywide beautification effort on Saturday, April 20.

“The Clean and Green event is a great opportunity for residents to come together to observe Earth Day while pitching in to take care of their neighborhood,” said Charles L. Williams, commissioner, Chicago Department of Streets and Sanitation. “By volunteering for just a few hours to assist with tasks like raking leaves, weeding, or removing litter that has accumulated during the winter, residents can help beautify the city and build community pride.”

Community groups who wish to participate are asked to identify a worksite and contact 311 to register. The Chicago Department of Streets and Sanitation can provide the brooms, rakes, shovels and bags needed to complete each cleaning project. Individuals who wish to participate can also call 311 to be referred to Clean and Green activities in their area. Anyone interested in participating in the program is encouraged to register by April 12.

In 2012, approximately 375 community groups participated in the Clean and Green program. The 2013 Clean and Green program is sponsored by the City of Chicago.