For the past three years, the Rotary Club of Rochester Southwest has been actively involved in the Parks and Trails NY Adopt-a-Trail Program, which aims to maintain and improve the Erie Canalway Trail. The club has been committed to keeping its two-mile section of the trail, which borders the 19th Ward running from Genesee Valley Park westward to Chili Avenue, clean and in good repair through its monthly planting, maintenance and clean-up events.
 
From April to December 2023, our club contributed 249 person hours towards the program, picking up 58 bags of trash. We found car parts, fast food remnants, money, plastic bags, PPE, furniture, beer cans and bottles, candy wrappers and a stroller. We also mobilized 150 people on the trail through our Roc River Ride event in September. Additionally, our club’s commitment to the Parks and Trails NY Adopt-a-Trail program aligns with Rotary International’s seventh area of focus, protecting the environment, which includes promoting sustainable use of resources, protecting ecosystems, and supporting efforts to combat climate change. Our efforts have helped ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for the public while also preserving the natural beauty of the trail.
 
We are always looking for volunteers to join us when gather the third Saturday of every month, weather permitting, from 10 am to 12 pm. Check out our website for each month’s meeting location. Rotary is dedicated to causes that build international relationships, improve lives, and create a better world to support our peace efforts and end polio forever.
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