The Chestermere Community Cleanup, formerly known as the Kinniburgh Community Cleanup, has made significant strides in maintaining the city’s beauty since its inception. The initiative, started by Laurianne Schell and her family, has grown from a small neighborhood effort to a city-wide movement.
“Our family moved to Kinniburgh in February 2015,” Schell shared. “We regularly walked our dog through the snow around the neighborhood and we always picked up after him. When spring arrived, we noticed how much pet waste and garbage was hidden under the snow!” This realization spurred Schell to action, and during the peak of COVID-19, she took matters into her own hands. “I wore rubber gloves up to my elbows and a mask, and in one morning I filled two large trash bags with garbage just from around my block,” she recalled.
Recognizing the broader need, Schell expanded the initiative beyond Kinniburgh. “In June 2024, I changed the name of the Facebook group to Chestermere Community Cleanup to reflect inclusivity,” she explained. This change was driven by volunteers from other areas of Chestermere who wanted their neighborhoods included in the cleanup efforts.
The community response has been positive. “Our Chestermere Community Cleanup Facebook group has nearly 100 members and we get many positive responses on social media and from individuals who recognize our hard work,” Schell noted. Despite the challenges of organizing the cleanups, including fluctuating volunteer numbers, Laurianne remains committed. “We have had as many as 15 volunteers at a time, and as few as one. Sometimes it’s just my family that shows up.”
The cleanups have led to tangible improvements in the community. “Last year alone we gathered 20 bags of trash from local parks, ponds, pathways, parking lots, roads, and the south end of the lake,” Schell said. The initiative has also garnered support from local leaders. “We’ve had MLAs, Councillors, and City of Chestermere staff join our initiative, and they’ve all worked hard,” she added.
Looking ahead, Schell envisions a growing movement. “The main goal is to have others participate and hopefully get to know each other and have some fun. It would be great to have others lead their own cleanups and to commit to more than one cleanup per summer.”
Community members are encouraged to join the Chestermere Community Cleanup Facebook group or take small actions like picking up trash during their walks. As Schell emphasized, “Chestermere is a beautiful city and we should all try to keep it that way.”
