On May 10, people are expected to gather in more than 60 locations to participate in the second-annual Pitch In All Santa Cruz Cleanup Day.
Last year’s event drew more than 430 volunteers, who removed in excess of 1,500 pounds of trash from local neighborhoods, beaches, parks, and creeks.
Organizers hope this year’s event will garner more interest.
“Pitch In is about more than just picking up trash,” said founder Sally-Christine Rodgers. “It’s about showing up for our neighbors, our wildlife, and our environment. When we work together, we build a cleaner, healthier community.”
Pitch In is organized by the Trash Talkers.
This year’s event brings together dozens of organizations including Watsonville Wetlands Watch, the Watsonville Youth Center, Ecology Action, Save Our Shores, O’Neill Sea Odyssey, and Downtown Streets Team, as well as local schools, neighborhood groups, church congregations, and businesses such as Big Creek Lumber and S. Martinelli & Co.
Several elected officials will also join the effort, who will kick off the day at the offices of the Land Trust of Santa Cruz County at 911 Center Street at 9am.
Participants include Sen. John Laird, Assembly woman Gail Pellerin, Santa Cruz Mayor Fred Keeley and Santa Cruz County Supervisors Justin Cummings and Manu Koenig. Volunteers from UC Santa Cruz and Pajaro Valley Unified School District will also participate.
“When our neighborhoods are clean, our kids are safer, our parks are more welcoming, and our entire community feels more cared for,” Santa Cruz County Supervisor Kim De Serpa said. “That’s why I’m proud to support Pitch In Santa Cruz. It’s not just about picking up trash—it’s about building pride, protecting our coast, and showing up for each other. Let’s keep Santa Cruz beautiful, together.”
To see a list of locations and sign up, visit PitchInSantaCruz.org
