The NCP President Michelle Frey said the organization works to “preserve the strong sense of community that defines our neighborhood. In addition to our quarterly newsletter, NCP members are always ready to lend a helping hand to neighbors, churches, and local businesses in need.”

According to Michelle Frey the “NCP Annual Clean-Up centers on the West End of Williamsport…specifically…to ensure a well-coordinated effort, volunteers are asked to sign in and indicate which streets they’ll be working on. This helps avoid overlapping coverage and makes sure every area gets the attention it needs.”

Over the year, litter and garbage can build up around the community and this special day helps to beautify things.

“This event is focused on reducing litter,” Frey said. “At the end of the day, all collected trash and recyclables are weighed before being properly disposed of. The total amount of waste removed from the streets is then reported to organizations like Keep America Beautiful and the Susquehanna Greenway Project, helping track the impact of our efforts on the local environment.”

Previously, the event has drawn “a diverse mix of families, individuals and organizations, all coming together to make a difference. Some years, we’re fortunate to have dozens of volunteers, while other times, we see a smaller group of dedicated participants.”

Despite the possible number of volunteers, Frey remains positive.

“Regardless of the turnout, every effort counts and contributes to the success of the cleanup,” she said.

When asked if volunteers should bring anything, Frey said to be prepared to work outside.

“Volunteers should come dressed for outdoor work, but there’s no need to bring anything other than themselves,” she said.

Volunteers will meet up at West End Christian Community Center, 913 Diamond St., to begin. The NCP will have road signs for the safety of the volunteers as well as “all necessary supplies, including work gloves, recycling bags, trash bags, trash grabbers and safety vests.”

According to Frey, it wasn’t just the volunteers who have stepped up to help — local organizations have done their part.

She said Wegmans contributed “a gift card to help cover the costs of breakfast snacks, drinks and a pizza lunch for all volunteers, ensuring everyone is well-fed and energized throughout the day.”

The members of the NCP have worked with organizations to develop positive relationships in the county.

“We’re proud to have built strong relationships with Mayor Slaughter, the Williamsport Police, and the city’s codes department. One of our cherished traditions is the annual Christmas Tree Lighting, where we come together to celebrate the season with festive cheer and a special visit from Santa Claus,” Frey said.

One of the positives of Newberry’s Annual Cleanup Day is the possibility it can inspire other clean ups in Williamsport.

“Neighbors coming together for a shared purpose is what keeps communities strong. In an era where the sense of community can feel like it’s slipping away, it’s more important than ever for groups like NCP to lead the way in fostering unity and positive change,” she said.

The purpose of the NCP is to encourage “a vibrant neighborhood where stewardship, cooperation and shared values are at the heart of everyday life.”

She further explained the mission is to “make both Newberry and Jaysburg a better place to live, work and worship.”

Actions like this will lead to better home values, which will benefit the community.

“Healthy communities have safe, clean streets, flourishing trees, increased home ownership and thriving local businesses,” she said.