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President Steve presided over the meeting and began by asking Meir Nesmetsky to recite the Four Way Test reminding us of the
rhings we think, say or do.
Today’s speakers were Gina Greblo and
Jill Mather from Volunteers Cleaning
Communities. Gina is a proud LA native who possess a love for the city’s natural beauty and a strong commitment for its preservation. Six months ago, she took a stand against litter plaguing LA streets. Starting with a single recycled grocery bag and quickly upgrading to a farmer’s market rolling cart, she has collected numerous bags of trash. Gina’s main concern led to individuals from the Girl Scouts to retirees joining in her monthly city cleanups, fostering a
powerful force for change. Beyond litter removal, Gina has forced genuine community bonds among business owners and cleanup volunteers who say they come for the cleanups, but then return for the sense of community she nurtures.
Gina isn’t just a guardian of LA natural
beauty, she is a catalyst for the vibrant
communities that make the city truly special.
Jill is a dedicated community leader on a mission to transform the mindset of littering in America, starting with the San Fernando Valley. As the founder of the 501c3 organization, Volunteers Cleaning Communities, she has
established a range of impactful programs such as “Adopt a Street”, “Litter Scavenger Hunt Program”, Environmental Awareness Day” and, “Earth Day” events to engage community members in environmental stewardship. Jill is a passionate advocate for positive change in her Chatworth hometown. She serves in various leadership roles including President of
Diamondhead HOA, Secretary of Chatsworth Neighborhood Council and,
is an active member in several chambers and community organization.
Gina is responsible for organizing west LA cleanups including in Westwood. The cleanups are limited to 2 hours and approximately one mile in walking distance. Teams of 4-5 volunteers
work together bagging litter. Full bags are left on red no parking curbs to be picked up by other volunteers with trucks (not the City). Only the major streets and not residential streets are
worked. Residential streets are left to the residents to clean up. Gina has approached business owners concerning the litter in their parking lots and got them involved in cleaning up litter themselves. Besides the opportunities
to exercise, volunteers also have the opportunity to meet like-minded people in their communities by participating in the cleanups.
Two years ago, Jill with the help of Gina
started cleanups in her local community that has now spread to the entire San Fernando Valley and, into west LA. A website, volunteerscleaningcommunities.com is available for online signups for future Cleanups.
Shoutout to IP Benjamin Fisher for greeting today, Meir Nemetsky for thought of the day and, Jim Meyer for leading the pledge. Also, thank you, Christine Clayburg for visiting us today.
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