AFSA adopts a street

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Timothy Moore
  • 355th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
The City of Tucson recognized the Davis-Monthan Air Force Base chapter of the Air Force Sergeants Association on June 22 with a ceremony unveiling a sign dedicated to the group for its work with the Adopt-a-Park and Public Areas Program.

"As a member of the Air Force, I think supporting your local community is very important," said Tech. Sgt. Jennifer Smith, 612th Air and Space Operations Center.

Smith, a member of AFSA Chapter 1261, had volunteered for the program before, and coordinated more than 50 volunteers to complete more than 70 hours cleaning up the stretch of Golf Links road between Swan road and Alvernon Way.

The Adopt-a-Park and Public Areas Program started on July 26, 1984 with a cleanup project at Sentinel Peak when a coalition of city and county government leaders, the business community, and volunteers from community organizations joined forces. Presently, more than 200 sites including parks, streets, and washes are adopted by volunteer groups. Sixteen groups from D-M are participating.

Any recognized business or community entity willing to make an ongoing volunteer commitment throughout the year may participate. A minimum of five volunteers is required. There is no fee to participate. Tucson Clean and Beautiful provides cleanup supplies as well as vests and road work signs to ensure the safety of volunteers. After a six month evaluation period, volunteer groups are recognized with a sign and ceremony at their adopted sites.

"The Air Force Sergeants Association chapter 1261 is very grateful to the city of Tucson for being given the opportunity to support and give back to the community," Smith said.

For more information on how to participate in the program, contact Evren Sonmez from Tucson Clean and Beautiful at 837-6834 or evren.sonmez@tucsonaz.gov. Information is also available at www.tucsoncleanandbeautiful.org.