As the sun’s rays peek out from their hibernation and life is brought back to the trees around Tualatin, the urge to get outside and soak in the sun returns. With Earth Day still in the rearview mirror, it’s essential to address one’s digital footprint and ask how to make the world a slightly healthier and happier place. 

Volunteering in the community is one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to give back to the environment and leave our Earth thriving and beautiful, while also boosting a resumé or application with volunteering hours. Put on your walking shoes, and apply your SPF because Tualatin has amazing volunteering opportunities for people of all ages! 

Tuesdays for Trash began over the COVID pandemic when two girls from Portland were eager to pave the way to a healthier future and said, “Picking up trash is a simple, safe, and effective way to practice environmental activism that anyone could do, anywhere in the world.” 

They began a movement that motivated citizens to get involved in their community’s well-being by picking up trash around town every Tuesday. Their goal is to fight for climate equity and promote opportunities for all people to participate in without having to make any major commitments. Every Tuesday individuals across the world go out into their communities and spend time cleaning up and throwing away toxic waste and plastics. This is an easy and flexible way to improve the health of the community by spending only a couple of hours a week picking up trash and debris. It also gives you an opportunity to take a break from work and breathe in the fresh spring air. 

Another perfect way to get outside and bond with nature right in honor of Earth Day is to participate in “Put Down Roots in Tualatin,” an event held by the city to engage the community in tree planting, mulching and nurturing. Information on these events can be found on the City of Tualatin website, and these volunteer opportunities are planned for May 6 and May 20. These events can involve anything from removing invasive ivy to walking through wetlands and soaking in the beautiful greenery along the Tualatin pathways. 

There is no better way to spend your Earth Day than admiring its loveliness and assisting in preserving its beauty. Participating in one of these outdoor activities will leave your resumé and conscience beaming!