On Sunday, September 8, 2024, the Tampa Chapter of the Intl. WeLoveU Foundation held a cleanup on Channelside Drive in the Channel District. Twenty-five volunteers gathered to remove 80 pounds of trash in just over an hour. The cleanup is part of WeLoveU’s global Clean WORLD Movement. The initiative has helped remove over 100,000 pounds of litter across the U.S.

Volunteers Take Action

WeLoveU volunteers view cleaning the city as a personal mission. They approach each effort with the care and dedication of a mother’s love. The Tampa chapter adopted Channelside Drive earlier in the year, committing to clean it quarterly. Through their actions, the chapter contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 11, Sustainable Cities and Communities. By keeping public spaces clean, volunteers are helping make the area safer, more resilient, and welcoming for both residents and visitors.

Importance of Cleanliness for Tourism

Channelside Drive leads to important landmarks. For instance, the Amalie Lightning Hockey Stadium and the Tampa Aquarium. Each year, these spots welcome over three million guests. With Tampa’s tourism industry bouncing back after the pandemic, keeping the city clean is important for protecting public health and enhancing the visitor experience. A clean city boosts tourist satisfaction and supports long-term economic growth.

A Community Effort

As they worked, volunteers collected broken glass, bottles, cigarette butts, and other trash scattered across the streets. These small actions are not only about cleaning but about building pride in their community. Passersby noticed the work and expressed their appreciation. One father pointed to the volunteers, telling his son, “They’re keeping our city pretty.”

This simple moment highlights how small efforts can inspire a culture of care and responsibility, spreading awareness and encouraging others to join in keeping the community clean and vibrant. Read about the previous Channelside Drive cleanup here.