Make Wheeling Shine Event Slated for May 1; Volunteers Needed

WHEELING, W.VA. – The City of Wheeling’s Department of Parks & Recreation is recruiting volunteers for its third annual Make Wheeling Shine event slated for 9 a.m., Saturday, May 1.

Director of Parks & Recreation Rochelle Barry said the community clean up event will focus on playgrounds and open spaces throughout the City. Those wishing to participate should sign up at bit.ly/makewheelingshine or by calling the Parks & Recreation office at 304-234-3641.

Barry explained Make Wheeling Shine is part of the broader Make It Shine program organized through the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection. Groups throughout West Virginia can apply to receive grant funding for supplies to complete clean-up activities in their communities. The grant will provide Make Wheeling Shine with gloves and bags for the event.

“In previous years we held a creek cleanup but this year we are trying to spread volunteers out, so we decided to focus on other areas. Volunteers can select where they would like to clean on the signup sheet but if they don’t have a preference, we will assign them a spot,” she said. “I'm glad we are able to safely hold this event this year after having to cancel last year's cleanup because of COVID-19. We are extremely grateful for all the volunteers who continue to help us better our public spaces for everyone in the community to enjoy.”

For more information on the program, please visit www.dep.wv.gov.