Author: Liki Porotesano, County of San Diego, Health & Human Services Agency

Life in San Diego can get hectic, so it can often feel difficult to find the time to fit in volunteering. However, those that do volunteer find it well worth the effort. Volunteering your skills and time can help people in need, support worthwhile causes, or beautify a park or open space. And while these efforts in the community are tremendous, the benefits can be even greater for you as the volunteer. Volunteering can help you feel a sense of accomplishment, a connection to your community and the gratitude of giving back.  It can take you out into nature or to new places you have never been before.

On Saturday, October 20^th, I Love A Clean San Diego and the City of Chula Vista held a dynamic community cleanup event called Beautify Chula Vista Day, organized and made strong by hundreds of enthusiastic volunteers.

Celebrating its 16th year in 2018, this event has made an extensive impact on the City of Chula Vista as a whole, having reached over 12 focus areas with plans to continue on its path to make a difference for the future. Each year continues to be successful with the help of dedicated volunteers who continue to beautify Chula Vista, one project at a time.

Last year, 454 volunteers came out to help remove an estimated 2,000 lbs of debris. This year, 1,033 volunteers removed 14,067 lbs of debris! Volunteers also contributed by removing over 5,300 sq ft of graffiti and planting 246 plants.

If you are ready to volunteer, I Love A Clean San Diego is looking for you to help with cleanup events.  Find out more on their  community events page.