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Volunteers shine during Earth Day ‘pitch-in’ projects across the South Okanagan

The regional district is hosting community clean-up events from April 20 to 23
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The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) is hosting pitch-in events from April 20 to 23, coinciding with Earth Day. Community gatherings that involve cleaning green spaces and properly disposing of waste are included in the initiatives. (Photo: RDOS Communications)

A week dedicated to cleaning up community green spaces and rejuvenating local neighbours has officially begun in the South Okanagan.

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) started hosting volunteer pitch-in events on April 20, giving people the opportunity to gather together in support of the community and its environment.

Pre-planned events — courtesy of the region’s recreation team — include the disposing of waste and the cleaning of green spaces and illegal dumpsites.

“Building healthy and cohesive communities in the Okanagan-Similkameen is an essential part of the programs and services offered by the RDOS,” said Mark Pendergraft, the region’s chair.

“Volunteers play a critical role in making this possible. By pitching in and helping clean up your neighbourhood, you’re making a difference in your community.”

The region-wide events will coincide with Earth Day on April 22, with all of the RDOS-hosted gatherings set to conclude on April 23.

Pitch-in events began in Okanagan Falls on April 20, with four more areas in the region set to get some community attention:

• West Bench, April 21

• Naramata, April 22

• Kaleden, April 23

• Keremeos, April 23

With rain in the forecast on Thursday, April 21, a strong turnout for the events is in question, according to the RDOS.

However, in 2021 during the inaugural edition of the region’s pitch-in events, as many as 10 people were seen cleaning up green spaces in West Bench.

While last year may have marked the first time the event was organized by the RDOS, pitch-in gatherings have run in Kaleden for almost a decade.

Other than cleaning up green spaces and properly disposing of waste, activities for children may be arranged by the regional district in the next few days, depending on the weather.

People interested in participating in the pitch-in or learning more about upcoming events are asked to click here.

READ MORE: Do you know what can go into recycling in Penticton?


@lgllockhart
logan.lockhart@pentictonwesternnews.com

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