In a vibrant gathering at the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners meeting, community spirit shone brightly as officials celebrated the success of a recent county-wide cleanup initiative. The initiative, launched in March, saw a remarkable turnout, with over 1,000 volunteers joining forces to beautify the area through recycling and cleanup efforts.

Commissioner Ted Terry, alongside the beautification department, spearheaded this ambitious project, which brought together schools, churches, businesses, and various organizations. The numbers were impressive: a total of 1,028 registered volunteers collected 1,054 bags of trash, showcasing the community's commitment to a cleaner environment.

District 7 emerged as a standout contributor, with volunteers collecting 512 bags, while District 6 followed closely with 354 bags. Notably, Tucker Middle School was recognized as the top educational contributor, and individual volunteer Mr. Coleman made headlines by collecting 25 bags on his own. The city of Chamblee and the DeKalb Greater Towers community association also made significant contributions, collecting 105 and 130 bags, respectively.

The event culminated in an awards brunch, where participants were honored for their hard work and dedication. The enthusiasm was palpable, with hopes expressed for the initiative to become an annual tradition, fostering even greater community involvement in the years to come.

As the meeting transitioned to discussions on behavioral health and unhoused planning, the momentum of community engagement remained a focal point, highlighting the county's commitment to addressing pressing social issues. The collaborative spirit displayed during the cleanup serves as a reminder of the power of collective action in shaping a better future for DeKalb County.