Despite the lingering clouds and threat of rain on April 24, 2010, over 1,500 volunteers spent the morning picking up litter throughout the City of Columbia.  By noon, they had collected an astounding 1,994 bags of garbage and recyclables!

MRCN could not let this phenomenal city-wide volunteer event pass without getting in on the action.  AmeriCorps members Lance, Julia and Rebecca joined lone volunteer Abbie for a stream clean-up along Hinkson Creek.  However, Mother Nature always gets her say when it comes to working near a stream, and she did NOT want us too close to the Hinkson that morning!  Over two inches of rainfall the day before had resulted in roaring rapids!  Nonetheless, in the spirit of the day, we worked our way along the banks (without getting too close), and hit some of the surrounding area as well.

When all was said and done, we still collected 5 bulging bags of garbage and 3 bags full of recyclables!    Our reward for the day- besides the satisfaction of volunteering- was an excellent picnic lunch!  A huge thanks goes out to the City of Columbia and event sponsors for coordinating the day, and to Abbie, MRCN's brave volunteer.