The theme for the United States Green Building Council Green Apple Day of Service was environmental stewardship and respect for the environment.

Yesterday, I volunteered in the United States Green Building Council Green Apple Day of Service in Bloomingdale, Illinois. Working with students and staff of Westfield Middle School, the Bloomingdale Park District, the Bloomingdale-Roselle Rotary Club and DLA Architects, we proceeded to clean Circle Creek, adjacent to Westfield Middle School. This turned out to be an outstanding example of collaboration, a public-private partnership and a great learning experience for the students.

I led a discussion as to the importance of environmental stewardship and respect for the environment. We looked at the various types of debris as to whether it was material that could be recycled or just trash. It was fitting that as we began, there were ducks swimming amongst the debris in the creek. The students felt sorry for the ducks having to swim in this type of environment. When we were done, we discussed with the students the concept of social responsibility.

Due to the project’s success, this may become an ongoing project. The Park District has volunteered to provide the equipment necessary for future endeavors. All in all, it was a benefit to the community and a lot of fun as well.