The ongoing summer cleanup series empowers youth volunteers to beautify Bronx neighborhoods and take action

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Bronx, NY – On Monday, June 9, 2025,Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson, in partnership with ASEZ WAO, hosted the 2nd event in the ‘Don’t Dump on the Bronx’ Summer Cleanup Series at 425 Westchester Avenue. This community-driven initiative brings together youth, university students, and local volunteers to combat littering, and illegal dumping, beautify public spaces, and empower the next generation of community leaders in the Bronx.

Organized in partnership with ASEZ WAO, a global volunteer organization made up of young community members and university students, the series reflects a shared commitment to environmental stewardship and collective action across the borough. The ‘Don’t Dump on the Bronx’ Summer Cleanup Series takes place throughout the month of June in observation of Gun Violence Awareness Month, reinforcing the connection between safer, cleaner streets and stronger, more resilient communities.

“Our residents deserve streets that reflect the beauty of our neighborhoods and the people that live in them”, said Bronx Borough President L. Gibson. “The ‘Don’t Dump on the Bronx’ campaign is about more than just cleanups, it’s about coming together as a community to demand better. By partnering with our incredible youth leaders from ASEZ WAO, we’re not only addressing these challenges head-on, but we’re also empowering the next generation to care for our communities.”

Participants in the cleanup will remove litter and debris from sidewalks and streets, raising awareness about the harmful effects of littering and the importance of taking pride in local spaces.

“As members of ASEZ and proud residents of this city, we believe that reducing crime and protecting our neighborhoods begins with small acts of respect and responsibility. Campaigns like ‘Don’t Dump on the Bronx’ and ‘Reduce Crime Together’ are more than cleanups—they’re statements of love for our neighbors”, said Victor Lozada, Regional Director of ASEZ WAO. “We’re committed to building a safer, cleaner Bronx not just for today, but for the generations to come.”

The June 9th cleanup marks the second event in the summer cleanup series, which will continue in neighborhoods across the Bronx in the month of June.