The Salvation Army of El Dorado Adopts Street to Combat Waste and Beautify City
In a world where environmental concerns are increasingly urgent, it is essential for every organization and individual to play their part in preserving our planet. At The Salvation Army of El Dorado, AR, we take this responsibility seriously. As an organization that serves over 90,000 meals a year, we recognized the need to address the issue of waste generated from our daily operations.
While we diligently provide meals to those in need, we noticed a concerning trend: styrofoam clamshells, the containers we use for to-go meals, are often left strewn on the streets instead of being disposed of properly. We were determined to find a solution that would not only mitigate this environmental problem but also contribute to the overall beauty and cleanliness of our city.
Taking the initiative, Corps Officer Major Joanna Robinson reached out to an Advisory Board member who also happened to be a City Council member, Dianne Hammond. Major Robinson proposed the idea of adopting a street in front of The Salvation Army through the city's Adopt-a-Street program. We are pleased to announce that the proposal was approved, allowing us to make a tangible difference in our community.
Under this program, The Salvation Army has pledged to maintain and beautify two blocks around the building on Madison, between Hillsborough and Main. We recognize that a clean and presentable environment not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of our city but also uplifts the spirits of its residents.
To fulfill this commitment, we will mobilize volunteers from our Advisory Board, Church, and Staff. These dedicated individuals will actively participate in cleaning up the adopted street, diligently collecting trash and ensuring the land remains free from litter. By engaging our community members in this collective effort, we foster a sense of ownership and pride in the appearance of our surroundings.
This adoption is not merely an act of responsibility but also an opportunity for us to demonstrate our core values of compassion, stewardship, and community involvement. The Salvation Army has always been committed to meeting the diverse needs of individuals, and we believe that caring for the environment is an integral part of that mission.
Furthermore, this adoption serves as a reminder to our patrons and the wider public that environmental consciousness goes hand in hand with the services we provide. We are taking steps to reduce our reliance on styrofoam containers, exploring more sustainable alternatives that align with our commitment to both the welfare of our beneficiaries and the well-being of our planet. By adopting this street, The Salvation Army aims to inspire others to take action and make a positive impact on our environment.
As we embark on this new chapter, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the City Council for their support and their commitment to keeping El Dorado a place we can all be proud to call home. We encourage everyone to join us in taking responsibility for the environment and collectively creating a sustainable future.