Tuesday, July 30, 2013, marked the beginning of the 25th anniversary celebration of Keep Arkansas Beautiful.

This milestone was marked by a visit from Gail Cunningham, senior vice president of Keep America Beautiful and director of the national Great American Cleanup. Gail’s visit started with an interview on KTHV Ch. 11, presentation to the downtown Little Rock Rotary Club, interview with KARN and NPR, and culminated with a presentation to the Keep Arkansas Beautiful Commission on Wednesday, July 31.
 
In her remarks to the Rotary Club, Gail stressed the partnership with Keep Arkansas Beautiful and the Keep Arkansas Beautiful Foundation.

“It’s particularly gratifying for me to participate in the kickoff of Keep Arkansas Beautiful’s ‘Greeniversary’ marking the 25th year of this impressive organization, and to speak to you about how active community partnerships among civic, government and business leaders can create sustainable programs that eliminate litter, reduce waste, encourage recycling and beautify our natural surroundings,” Cunningham said.

The “Greeniversary” event is being organized by the Keep Arkansas Beautiful Foundation.
 
Gail talked about numerous Keep Arkansas Beautiful Commission programs, the contributions of thousands of volunteers, the vast number of cleanup events and the many locations at which cleanups are held. She stressed the importance of continuing education about litter and litter control and the need for this education to start with younger generations. She gave a brief history of Keep America Beautiful and showed a PSA of the new marketing program on recycling.

Gail’s message concluded with a plea for continued cooperation and the need for financial support for the foundation. She urged those in attendance to get involved with volunteer opportunities in their local community, state and nation.
 
The only way the Keep Arkansas Beautiful Foundation can continue is for individuals, corporations and other organizations to continue providing financial support. You can make a donation by going clicking on the “donate” button.