WORCESTER—More than 1,400 volunteers are expected to fan out across Worcester on Saturday morning for the city’s 36th annual Earth Day cleanups, a large-scale effort aimed at sprucing up neighborhoods, parks and public spaces.
Organized by the Regional Environmental Council in partnership with the Worcester Department of Public Works and supported by presenting sponsor National Grid, the event will span more than 75 cleanup sites throughout the city — making it one of Worcester’s largest coordinated volunteer initiatives of the year.
The day begins with an 8 a.m. kickoff at the REC office on Beacon Street, where Mayor Joseph Petty is expected to read the city’s official Earth Day proclamation. A number of elected officials—including U.S. Rep. James McGovern and state Sens. Michael Moore and Robyn Kennedy — are also expected to participate in cleanup efforts across Worcester.
The annual event mobilizes residents to collect litter, improve public spaces and build community connections, reflecting what organizers describe as a growing local commitment to environmental stewardship.
“This year’s theme, Nurture Your Neighborhood, was inspired by a moment when many people are feeling discouraged by national and global challenges,” said Tracy Andryc, REC Development and Communications Director, in a statement released by the organization. “By coming together locally, we can take meaningful action, support one another, and create tangible change that makes our community stronger and more hopeful. With the support of our partners at the Worcester DPW, National Grid, and Pick Up Massachusetts and the dedication of our volunteers, we are making Worcester cleaner, healthier, and more vibrant for everyone.”
Volunteers will work throughout the morning at sites across the city, from neighborhood streets to green spaces, contributing to a long-running tradition that has become a cornerstone of Worcester’s Earth Day observances.
For more on local Earth Day events and how Worcester is marking the occasion, see the Worcester Guardian’s full coverage.
