On Saturday, Oct. 17, Executive Girmay Zahilay joined the Duwamish Alive Coalition, King County Volunteer Corps, employees, and residents for the county’s inaugural Regional Day of Service.
Rain in the forecast and wind on the way didn’t stop more than 60 volunteers from showing up at White Center Heights Park to make a difference. The event, hosted by the Duwamish Alive Coalition and King County Parks, was part of Duwamish Alive!, a biannual community effort that has brought neighbors together to restore and protect the Duwamish watershed since 2006.
Volunteers removed 160 gallons of litter and 20 cubic yards of weeds – enough material to fill up the beds of four pickup trucks – planted 60 native shrubs and ferns, and spread mulch to support the park’s restoration. Across the watershed, other Duwamish Alive! activities included kayak-based river cleanups and additional planting and restoration projects.
“We all have a role to play in making our neighborhoods better,” Executive Zahilay said. “Be in Community, one of my 4 Bs for a Better Future, is a top priority of my administration, and our first Regional Day of Service was a direct way to put that into practice. I’m grateful to everyone who showed up, rolled up their sleeves, and volunteered alongside their neighbors.”
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- PHOTO GALLERY: Relive the day’s volunteer efforts and community spirit.
Ready to Get Involved?
Do you want to help meet local needs and make a difference in your community? Join the Volunteer Corps at kingcounty.gov/volunteer. The program connects motivated residents with opportunities to support King County and local non-profit organizations.