By: Elaine Hobson
On Saturday, March 14, 2026, volunteers from Greensboro, Zion Ridge, and New Zion communities participated in a Community Cleanup Day. The event commenced at the Former Greensboro CME Church site, located at 2329 Metts Street in Louisville, MS, with an opening prayer for safety, followed by a morning briefing in which organizers assigned volunteer groups to designated roads and areas to pick up trash.
The strong turnout for Community Cleanup Day demonstrated the volunteers’ dedication to improving their neighborhoods. From 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., volunteers from Greensboro, Zion Ridge, and New Zion worked together to collect large amounts of trash from designated areas. Their efforts significantly enhanced the community’s overall appearance and reflected a shared commitment to keeping their neighborhoods clean. Inspired by their achievements and past cleanups, the volunteers pledged to continue organizing future cleanup events to ensure their communities remain welcoming and litter-free.
Joan Eiland, who lives in the Greensboro community, talked about teaching people not to litter and to maintain a clean environment. She said that when everyone works together, we can keep the community litter-free and create a positive change. Ms. Eiland also suggested that people keep a bag in their cars for garbage to reduce litter on the roads.
Also, the community organizers emphasized the importance of stopping littering, explaining that if people stopped littering, community cleanups would not be necessary. They pointed out that adults as well as children are responsible for throwing trash onto roads, and those who litter are aware it is wrong but do so anyway, showing a lack of pride in their communities.
Ida Pearl (Cooper) Miller, a resident of Zion Ridge who took part in the cleanup, shared that removing debris from the roads greatly improved the area’s appearance. She emphasized that her team—which included James (Dad) Cooper, Clara Cooper, Linda Miller, Elaine Burnside, Carey Miller, and herself—worked closely, thoroughly cleaning their assigned area of New Zion and Zion Ridge. Ms. Ida Pearl Miller added that they enjoyed working together, cleaning their assigned area, and making a positive difference in the community.
Following the cleanup, everyone gathered to socialize and enjoy grilled chicken and hot dogs prepared on-site by the Big Boys BBQ team, managed by Greensboro resident Sharonne Cooper and New Zion resident Octavious (Duck) Cobb. Community residents provided a variety of sides, chips, desserts, sodas, and water, which were enjoyed by all. The tasty food and drinks allowed volunteers to relax and celebrate their hard work.
The organizers thanked everyone for supporting the cleanup. Special thanks to the Winston Choctaw County Regional Correctional Facility for permitting participants under their supervision to assist with road cleanup in the Greensboro area. Their efforts improved the area’s appearance.
