Lee County Volunteers Unite for 37th Coastal Cleanup

When millions of people around the world roll up their sleeves on the same day to save our oceans, something powerful happens.

This September 19th, Lee County residents will join the 37th annual International Coastal Cleanup, one of the planet's largest volunteer efforts dedicated to protecting coastlines and marine life. Keep Lee County Beautiful is organizing cleanup sites across the county as part of Ocean Conservancy's global initiative.

The event brings together families, students, businesses, and community groups for a simple but meaningful mission: collect trash, document what they find, and help create solutions that protect ocean ecosystems. Every piece of litter removed means safer habitats for marine animals and healthier beaches for communities.

"The International Coastal Cleanup is a reminder that caring for our environment starts with each of us," said Trish Fancher, Executive Director of Keep Lee County Beautiful. Her team has been coordinating this effort locally, turning individual action into collective impact.

The beauty of this event lies in its accessibility. Whether you're a solo volunteer, a family looking for a meaningful weekend activity, or an entire company ready to give back, there's a place for you. Pre-registration is required, and additional cleanup sites are still being finalized across Lee County.

The Ripple Effect

What starts as picking up plastic bottles and fishing line creates waves of change far beyond the beach. The data volunteers collect helps researchers and policymakers understand pollution patterns and develop better solutions. Communities that participate often see residents become more conscious about reducing waste year-round.

When neighbors work side by side to protect shared natural spaces, something shifts. The cleanup builds environmental awareness while strengthening community bonds.

One day of action, 37 years of commitment, and countless pieces of trash kept from harming marine life.