On Sunday, April 24, 2022, the WeLoveU Foundation revisited Jamaica Bay in Queens, NY, in honor of Earth Day. The group partnered with the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge and the American Littoral Society to fulfill Earth Day’s theme, “Invest in Our Planet.” The theme fits WeLoveU’s efforts at Jamaica Bay as the group has been cleaning the bay for more than ten years with longtime partner Don Riepe.

Partnerships for the Goal

About 60 volunteers took time out of their day to make a difference. To clean the bay efficiently, they focused on collecting plastic and glass bottles, broken chairs, and other debris along the beach. In total, the WeLoveU volunteers collected 50 bags of trash weighing 1,150 pounds. While cleaning, Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato stopped by to show her support. She said, “I think that’s what your group is about; I think your kindness matters.”

The Jamaica Bay Earth Day cleanup helped keep marine life safe, allowing the various marine species to live in their natural habitat. Also, through this event, WeLoveU was able to keep the environment safe and clean for the local community, who frequently gather in the Jamaica Bay area.

Overall, the WeLoveU volunteers cheerfully worked together to preserve the environment in the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge, not just for the wildlife and marine life but also for the local community of Howard Beach to feel comfortable in and enjoy. Furthermore, the Jamaica Bay cleanup contributes to Sustainable Development Goals 13, 14, 15, and 17: Climate Action, Life Below Water, Life on Land, and Partnership for the Goals.