High school students across the Roanoke Valley are invited to the first annual SYNC (Synergy of Youth, Nature and Community) overlook cleanup on the Blue Ridge Parkway, from 9 a.m. to noon, on Saturday, Oct. 22. (The rain date is Saturday, Oct. 29.)
Participants will be challenged to win prizes, such as the school with the most volunteers, the individual with the most unusual find and the best selfie. Friends of the Blue Ridge Parkway-Roanoke Valley Chapter is providing volunteer support, oversight and supplies.
“The goal is to introduce students to the fun of volunteering on the Blue Ridge Parkway,” says Beryl Ignacio, a junior at Hidden Valley High School, who is leading the cleanup as a DECA project. Ignacio hopes all area high schools will have participants in the event.
Cleanup volunteers will meet at 9 a.m., sharp, at Mason’s Knob Overlook (Milepost 126.2) to register and receive supplies and overlook assignments.
Participants are asked to wear closed-toe shoes and long pants and bring work gloves and water. Items that will be provided include: trash bags, safety vests, extra work gloves, water and snacks.
The event will conclude at noon, though students can stay after for an up-close chance to meet Jolene, the donkey, and Judy, the mule, who are often seen grazing at Mason’s Knob.
Please send an email to [email protected] to register or with questions.
