The Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service is turning 30 years old this year, and to mark the occasion, the Forest Preserve District will host two trail cleanup programs. 

“It’s a way to honor Dr. King’s legacy,” said Emily Kenny, the Forest Preserve’s volunteer services supervisor. “The day is designed to encourage people to give back to their communities, and involvement has grown through the years as more people participate to improve their neighborhoods and towns.”

To commemorate this special day, the Forest Preserve Volunteer Services department is offering trail cleanup opportunities on the following days:

• Sunday, Jan. 19: Trail Cleanup at Rock Run Preserve – Black Road Access, Joliet. Community members are invited to help clean up a section of the Rock Run Greenway Trail from Black Road to Jefferson Street. 
• Monday, Jan. 20: Trail Cleanup at Joliet Junction Trail, Rockdale. Volunteers will assist with cleaning up the Joliet Junction Trail, south of Moen Ave. Parking is available at 2111 Moen Ave., in front of PT Ferro Asphalt. 

Cleanup activities will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on each day. 

“Participants will be able to enjoy the camaraderie of working alongside other like-minded individuals while walking a few miles and helping to keep our green spaces clean for all to enjoy,” Kenny said.

Space is limited for both cleanup events, and pre-registration is required by completing an online waiver. You will receive a confirmation email once you are added to the event roster. All ages are welcome, but all participants under 16 will need to be accompanied by an adult who has a signed waiver. 

Buckets, grabbers, bags and gloves will be provided. Participants will walk approximately 2 miles each way on paved trails and the adjacent natural areas bordering the trail. Dress for the weather as January can be cold and snowy. 

Contact [email protected] if you would like to learn about additional volunteer opportunities throughout the year.