Portland, Ore., May 2, 2024 – SOLVE, in partnership with Oregon Heritage, is pleased to announce the revival of the Historic Cemetery Cleanup Days after a hiatus since 2018. These cleanup events are scheduled on various weekends throughout May, leading up to Memorial Day on Monday, May 27, 2024, to ensure Oregon's historic cemeteries are respectfully maintained for visitors paying homage to their loved ones. Volunteers are invited to join in the removal of invasive plants, cleaning of headstones, and assisting with general grounds maintenance. This endeavor not only honors the memory of those who served our country but also fosters a sense of community and environmental stewardship in preserving these culturally significant sites.
Oregon's historic cemeteries serve as poignant reminders of our collective past and are repositories of immense cultural value. Heritage enthusiasts, friends, and neighbors from all walks of life are invited to join us in preserving these sacred sites during the Historic Cemetery Cleanup Days throughout May. Your participation is crucial in ensuring these cemeteries are respectfully prepared to welcome visitors on Memorial Day.
Events Scheduled:
Salem Pioneer Cemetery Site Restoration
Date: Saturday, May 11, 2024 | 9 AM – 1 PM
Location: Pioneer Cemetery, Corner of Commercial St. and Hoyt St., Salem | Map Link
For more information and registration, visit: SOLVE | Pioneer Cemetery Site Restoration Event
Marshfield Partners to Preserve our Pioneer Cemetery
Date: Saturday, May 11, 2024 | 11 AM – 3 PM
Location: Marshfield Pioneer Cemetery, 972 Ingersoll Ave Coos Bay| Map Link
For more information and registration, visit: SOLVE | Marshfield -Partners to Preserve our Pioneer Cemetery (solveoregon.org)
Clackamas Cemetery Spring Cleanup
Date: Saturday, May 18, 2024 | 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Clackamas Cemetery, 13600 Se Ambler Rd, Clackamas| Map Link
For more information and registration, visit: SOLVE | Clackamas Cemetery Spring Cleanup 2024
Pioneer Cemetery Workday
Date: Saturday, May 25, 2024 | 9 am – 12 pm
Location: 200 East Dodge, Lebanon| Map Link
For more information and registration, visit: SOLVE | Lebanon Pioneer Cemetery Workday
About SOLVE
SOLVE is a statewide non-profit organization that brings people together to improve our environment and build a legacy of stewardship. Since 1969, the organization has grown from a small, grassroots group to a national model for volunteer action. Today, SOLVE mobilizes and trains tens of thousands of volunteers of all ages across Oregon and Southwest Washington to clean and restore our neighborhoods and natural areas and to build a legacy of stewardship for our state. Visit solveoregon.org for more information.
About Oregon Heritage
Oregon Heritage is part of the Oregon Parks and Recreation Office and includes the Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries. Oregon Heritage provides technical resources and grants for work supporting documentation and preservation of and access to Oregon’s history.
State law established the seven-member Commission to maintain a listing of all historic cemeteries and gravesites in Oregon, promote public education on the significance of historic cemeteries, and help obtain financial and technical assistance for restoring, improving, and maintaining their appearances.
Over 4,000 SOLVE volunteers celebrated Earth Day across 126 Oregon Spring Cleanup events over the span of ten days
Portland, Ore., April 23, 2024 – The Oregon Spring Cleanup, in partnership with Portland General Electric, concluded on Earth Day yesterday with resounding success. Between April 13 and April 22, more than 4,000 volunteers across Oregon and SW Washington gathered for a celebration of Earth Day, where they collectively picked up 21,981 pounds of litter and marine debris and removed 21,900 square feet of invasive plant species such as English Ivy and Himalayan Blackberry. Families, community members, neighborhood associations, youth groups, and environmental enthusiasts once again made the Oregon Spring Cleanup the highlight of SOLVE's annual calendar.
Oregon Spring Cleanup History
Rooted in SOLVE's longstanding traditions, the Oregon Spring Cleanup merged two of the organization's most cherished events—the Spring Oregon Beach Cleanup, dating back to 1986, and SOLVE IT for Earth Day, which began in 1990.
Oregon Spring Cleanup event highlights
SE Portland Eco-Disco: Litter Cleanup & Silent Disco, April 20th:
In collaboration with Heartbeat Silent Disco, this unique Earth Day celebration, in partnership with Portland General Electric, drew 114 volunteers to Portland’s Central Eastside. Following the cleanup in the Buckman neighborhood, where 800 lbs of litter got collected, the festivities continued with a free silent dance party, adding an extra layer of celebration to the cleanup efforts. Volunteers were provided with wireless headphones with personal volume control and adjustable fit, allowing everyone to enjoy the music while respecting the natural surroundings.
Cityscape Sparkle: Earth Day Cleanup at Sport Oregon, April 22nd:
This litter cleanup event took place on Earth Day and went beyond tidying up the neighborhood streets. 100 participants came together for a day of community, cleanliness, and local love at Sport Oregon to foster a sense of unity and enhance the local environment.
“Once again, we were thrilled to witness the vibrant array of events orchestrated by our community, showcasing the power of collective action in honoring Earth Day," enthuses Kris Carico, CEO of SOLVE. "This annual event series continues to serve as a beacon, drawing together volunteers and SOLVE partners from across the Pacific Northwest in a joyous celebration of our planet. From the shores of Oregon’s northernmost tip in Astoria, down the coast to Brookings, and extending to riverside locations such as Cascade Locks, Sandy, and Breitenbush, as well as reaching Baker City in Eastern Oregon, the spirit of Earth Day resonated through every cleanup endeavor." Carico highlights the diverse range of initiatives, including the impactful efforts of the Portland chapter of Women Who Explore, bringing together 20 women for a Pre-Earth Day Riverside Cleanup at Kelley Point Park. A Girl Scout group also picked up trash along the Molalla River in Clackamas County and the Clark County Master Gardener group held an impactful Service Day in Vancouver, Washington. "These events exemplify the spirit of community and environmental stewardship that lies at the heart of SOLVE," Carico adds.
Photo Contest
There is still time for volunteers and event leaders to send in the pictures they have taken during their cleanup events and habitat restoration projects. Everyone who submits their photos and videos by
April 28 will enter the SOLVE photo contest with chances to win a 1-year AAA membership. Ways to enter include tagging SOLVE on Facebook or Instagram, using #OregonSpringCleanup2024, or sending us their footage via email to info@solveoregon.org. SOLVE likes to see volunteers in action, before and after cleanup shots, the largest and tiniest items you've picked up, and most importantly, your smiling faces!
Anyone who couldn’t attend an Oregon Spring Cleanup event this year can support SOLVE by individual giving. A donation of any size helps SOLVE to host more events year after year and to provide volunteers with free supplies, event leader training, and all the support they need to run a successful event.
Oregon Spring Cleanup Sponsors 2024
Along with Portland General Electric, other event sponsors include Clean Water Services, AAA Oregon/Idaho, Fred Meyer, Metro, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, KOIN, The Oregonian, The Standard, Swire Coca-Cola, Holman, Demarini-Wilson, TriMet, PepsiCo, and Wells Fargo.
About SOLVE
SOLVE is a statewide non-profit organization that brings people together to improve our environment and build a legacy of stewardship. Since 1969, the organization has grown from a small, grassroots group to a national model for volunteer action. Today, SOLVE mobilizes and trains tens of thousands of volunteers of all ages across Oregon and Southwest Washington to clean and restore our neighborhoods and natural areas and to build a legacy of stewardship for our state. Visit solveoregon.org for more information.
Over 4,000 SOLVE volunteers celebrated Earth Day across 126 Oregon Spring Cleanup events over the span of ten days
Portland, Ore., April 23, 2024 – The Oregon Spring Cleanup, in partnership with Portland General Electric, concluded on Earth Day yesterday with resounding success. Between April 13 and April 22, more than 4,000 volunteers across Oregon and SW Washington gathered for a celebration of Earth Day, where they collectively picked up 21,981 pounds of litter and marine debris and removed 21,900 square feet of invasive plant species such as English Ivy and Himalayan Blackberry. Families, community members, neighborhood associations, youth groups, and environmental enthusiasts once again made the Oregon Spring Cleanup the highlight of SOLVE's annual calendar.
Oregon Spring Cleanup History
Rooted in SOLVE's longstanding traditions, the Oregon Spring Cleanup merged two of the organization's most cherished events—the Spring Oregon Beach Cleanup, dating back to 1986, and SOLVE IT for Earth Day, which began in 1990.
Oregon Spring Cleanup event highlights
SE Portland Eco-Disco: Litter Cleanup & Silent Disco, April 20th:
In collaboration with Heartbeat Silent Disco, this unique Earth Day celebration, in partnership with Portland General Electric, drew 114 volunteers to Portland’s Central Eastside. Following the cleanup in the Buckman neighborhood, where 800 lbs of litter got collected, the festivities continued with a free silent dance party, adding an extra layer of celebration to the cleanup efforts. Volunteers were provided with wireless headphones with personal volume control and adjustable fit, allowing everyone to enjoy the music while respecting the natural surroundings.
Cityscape Sparkle: Earth Day Cleanup at Sport Oregon, April 22nd:
This litter cleanup event took place on Earth Day and went beyond tidying up the neighborhood streets. 100 participants came together for a day of community, cleanliness, and local love at Sport Oregon to foster a sense of unity and enhance the local environment.
“Once again, we were thrilled to witness the vibrant array of events orchestrated by our community, showcasing the power of collective action in honoring Earth Day," enthuses Kris Carico, CEO of SOLVE. "This annual event series continues to serve as a beacon, drawing together volunteers and SOLVE partners from across the Pacific Northwest in a joyous celebration of our planet. From the shores of Oregon’s northernmost tip in Astoria, down the coast to Brookings, and extending to riverside locations such as Cascade Locks, Sandy, and Breitenbush, as well as reaching Baker City in Eastern Oregon, the spirit of Earth Day resonated through every cleanup endeavor." Carico highlights the diverse range of initiatives, including the impactful efforts of the Portland chapter of Women Who Explore, bringing together 20 women for a Pre-Earth Day Riverside Cleanup at Kelley Point Park. A Girl Scout group also picked up trash along the Molalla River in Clackamas County and the Clark County Master Gardener group held an impactful Service Day in Vancouver, Washington. "These events exemplify the spirit of community and environmental stewardship that lies at the heart of SOLVE," Carico adds.
Photo Contest
There is still time for volunteers and event leaders to send in the pictures they have taken during their cleanup events and habitat restoration projects. Everyone who submits their photos and videos by
April 28 will enter the SOLVE photo contest with chances to win a 1-year AAA membership. Ways to enter include tagging SOLVE on Facebook or Instagram, using #OregonSpringCleanup2024, or sending us their footage via email to info@solveoregon.org. SOLVE likes to see volunteers in action, before and after cleanup shots, the largest and tiniest items you've picked up, and most importantly, your smiling faces!
Anyone who couldn’t attend an Oregon Spring Cleanup event this year can support SOLVE by individual giving. A donation of any size helps SOLVE to host more events year after year and to provide volunteers with free supplies, event leader training, and all the support they need to run a successful event.
Oregon Spring Cleanup Sponsors 2024
Along with Portland General Electric, other event sponsors include Clean Water Services, AAA Oregon/Idaho, Fred Meyer, Metro, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, KOIN, The Oregonian, The Standard, Swire Coca-Cola, Holman, Demarini-Wilson, TriMet, and PepsiCo.
About SOLVE
SOLVE is a statewide non-profit organization that brings people together to improve our environment and build a legacy of stewardship. Since 1969, the organization has grown from a small, grassroots group to a national model for volunteer action. Today, SOLVE mobilizes and trains tens of thousands of volunteers of all ages across Oregon and Southwest Washington to clean and restore our neighborhoods and natural areas and to build a legacy of stewardship for our state. Visit solveoregon.org for more information.
***Media Advisory - All Media Are Invited***
SOLVE's Oregon Spring Cleanup 2024 spans across Oregon and SW Washington with over 100 events. This hallmark event, celebrating Earth Day, unites volunteers and partners from the Pacific Northwest to contribute to a cleaner, greener planet. Rooted in SOLVE's rich history, this event series merges two cherished events: the Spring Oregon Beach Cleanup (1986) and SOLVE IT for Earth Day (1990). The Oregon Spring Cleanup 2024 is presented by Portland General Electric. It's an excellent opportunity for families, coworkers, and neighbors to bond while preserving Oregon's stunning locations.
Media are invited to document environmentally engaged citizens and interview SOLVE staff and partners at the following event:
What: Cityscape Sparkle: Earth Day Cleanup at Sport Oregon
When: Monday, April 22, 2024, 2 PM – 4 PM. Volunteers will start arriving after 1:45 PM.
Where: 1939 SW Morrison St Portland, OR 97205 | (Map Link)
We will be meeting outside of Sport Oregon.
This litter cleanup event taking place on Earth Day 2024 goes beyond tidying up the neighborhood streets. Participants are invited for a day of community, cleanliness, and local love at Sport Oregon to foster a sense of unity and enhance our local environment. This Earth Day event is presented by Swire Coca-Cola and TriMet.
The media should arrive at Sport Oregon by 1:45 PM.
Available interviewees:
- Kris Carico, CEO, SOLVE
- Josh Keller, Development Director, SOLVE
- Tia York, Manager of Media Relations, TriMet Public Affairs Division
For more event details, please check the event page:
SOLVE | Cityscape Sparkle: Earth Day Cleanup (solveoregon.org)
Along with Portland General Electric, event sponsors of the Oregon Spring Cleanup 2024 include Clean Water Services, AAA Oregon/Idaho, Fred Meyer, Metro, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, KOIN, The Oregonian, The Standard, Swire Coca-Cola, Holman, Demarini-Wilson, TriMet, and PepsiCo.
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About SOLVE
SOLVE is a statewide non-profit organization that brings people together to improve our environment and build a legacy of stewardship. Since 1969, the organization has grown from a small, grassroots group to a national model for volunteer action. Today, SOLVE mobilizes and trains tens of thousands of volunteers of all ages across Oregon and Southwest Washington to clean and restore our neighborhoods and natural areas and to build a legacy of stewardship for our state. Visit solveoregon.org for more information.
***Media Advisory - All Media Are Invited***
SOLVE's Oregon Spring Cleanup 2024 spans across Oregon and SW Washington with over 100 events. This hallmark event, celebrating Earth Day, unites volunteers and partners from the Pacific Northwest to contribute to a cleaner, greener planet. Rooted in SOLVE's rich history, this event series merges two cherished events: the Spring Oregon Beach Cleanup (1986) and SOLVE IT for Earth Day (1990). The Oregon Spring Cleanup 2024 is presented by Portland General Electric. It's an excellent opportunity for families, coworkers, and neighbors to bond while preserving Oregon's stunning locations.
Media are invited to document environmentally engaged citizens and interview SOLVE staff and partners at the following two events:
What: SE Portland Eco-Disco: Litter Cleanup & Silent Disco
When: Saturday, April 20, 2024
The cleanup will be held from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM. The silent disco will run from 11 AM until 1 PM.
Volunteers will start arriving after 9:45 AM.
Where: 320 SE 16th Ave Portland, OR 97214 | (Map Link)
We will be meeting at Buckman Elementary, under the covered basketball courts.
This unique Earth Day celebration and collaboration with Heartbeat Silent Disco in Portland’s Central Eastside is presented by Portland General Electric. Following the cleanup at 12 pm, the festivities continue with a free silent disco until 1 pm, adding an extra layer of celebration to the cleanup efforts. Volunteers will be provided with wireless headphones with personal volume control and adjustable fit, allowing everyone to enjoy the music while respecting the natural surroundings.
The media should arrive at the Central Eastside Cleanup event by 9:45 AM.
Available interviewees:
- Kris Carico, CEO, SOLVE
- Kregg Arnston, Executive Director of the PGE Foundation
For more event details, please check the event page:
SOLVE | SE Portland Eco-Disco: Litter Cleanup & Silent Disco (solveoregon.org)
What: Cityscape Sparkle: Earth Day Cleanup at Sport Oregon
When: Monday, April 22, 2024, 2 PM – 4 PM. Volunteers will start arriving after 1:45 PM.
Where: 1939 SW Morrison St Portland, OR 97205 | (Map Link)
We will be meeting outside of Sport Oregon.
This litter cleanup event taking place on Earth Day 2024 goes beyond tidying up the neighborhood streets. Participants are invited for a day of community, cleanliness, and local love at Sport Oregon to foster a sense of unity and enhance our local environment. This Earth Day event is presented by Swire Coca-Cola and TriMet.
The media should arrive at Sport Oregon by 1:45 PM.
Available interviewees:
- Kris Carico, CEO, SOLVE
- Josh Keller, Development Director, SOLVE
- Tia York, Manager of Media Relations, TriMet Public Affairs Division
For more event details, please check the event page:
SOLVE | Cityscape Sparkle: Earth Day Cleanup (solveoregon.org)
Along with Portland General Electric, event sponsors of the Oregon Spring Cleanup 2024 include Clean Water Services, AAA Oregon/Idaho, Fred Meyer, Metro, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, KOIN, The Oregonian, The Standard, Swire Coca-Cola, Holman, Demarini-Wilson, TriMet, and PepsiCo.
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About SOLVE
SOLVE is a statewide non-profit organization that brings people together to improve our environment and build a legacy of stewardship. Since 1969, the organization has grown from a small, grassroots group to a national model for volunteer action. Today, SOLVE mobilizes and trains tens of thousands of volunteers of all ages across Oregon and Southwest Washington to clean and restore our neighborhoods and natural areas and to build a legacy of stewardship for our state. Visit solveoregon.org for more information.
Portland, Ore., April 11, 2024 – The Oregon Spring Cleanup, presented by Portland General Electric, kicks off this Saturday. From April 13 to April 22, more than 100 volunteer opportunities are open for registration in celebration of Earth Day. Families, community members, neighborhood associations, and environmental enthusiasts are invited to participate in the biggest event on SOLVE's annual calendar.
Everyone is invited to join SOLVE, event leaders, and partners from across the Pacific Northwest in a collective celebration of Earth Day. The SOLVE calendar showcases a variety of events throughout Oregon and SW Washington between April 13 and April 22, with the majority of events culminating on April 20. Diverse initiatives address specific environmental needs with opportunities ranging from beach cleanups to neighborhood and city litter pickups. Further activities include restoring natural habitats through native tree and shrub plantings, weed pulls, and mulching projects. Each project contributes to the enhancement of our shared surroundings.
With over 100 projects to choose from, the Oregon Spring Cleanup invites enthusiastic volunteers to contribute to a cleaner, greener, and brighter planet. Interested individuals can browse the map of projects to find events near them, learn about each opportunity, and sign up for a meaningful contribution to the environment. Participating in the Oregon Spring Cleanup provides an excellent opportunity to bond with family members, coworkers, and neighbors, while collectively contributing to preserving some of Oregon's most stunning locations.
As SOLVE anticipates another successful event, valued partner Portland General Electric, shares their commitment to the cause: " PGE proudly supports SOLVE's efforts to make our communities cleaner and greener. In 2023, our employees and their families volunteered with SOLVE for more than 220 hours. We're excited to join community members again this Earth Day to help improve our beautiful state." said Kristen Sheeran, Senior Director of Policy Planning and Sustainability, Portland General Electric.
Anyone who cannot attend an Oregon Spring Cleanup event this year can support SOLVE by individual giving. A donation of any size will help SOLVE host more events year after year and provide volunteers with free supplies, event leader training, and all the support they need to run a successful event.
For more information, please visit www.solveoregon.org/oregon-spring and be part of the collective effort to create a cleaner, greener planet.
Along with Portland General Electric, other event sponsors include Clean Water Services, AAA Oregon/Idaho, Fred Meyer, Metro, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, KOIN, The Standard, Swire Coca-Cola, Holman, Demarini-Wilson, TriMet, and PepsiCo.
About SOLVE
SOLVE is a statewide non-profit organization that brings people together to improve our environment and build a legacy of stewardship. Since 1969, the organization has grown from a small, grassroots group to a national model for volunteer action. Today, SOLVE mobilizes and trains tens of thousands of volunteers of all ages across Oregon and Southwest Washington to clean and restore our neighborhoods and natural areas and to build a legacy of stewardship for our state. Visit solveoregon.org for more information.