With shovels, cutters and rakes in their gloved hands, 32 volunteers in Five Points South took time out of their Saturday morning on March 24 to give back to their community. 
Clean and Clear Five Points South is a quarterly cleanup event in partnership with area stakeholders. From trash collection to landscaping improvements and sidewalk clearing, the volunteers’ efforts lead to a higher quality of life in Five Points South by attracting visitors and new residents, reducing crime, encouraging new businesses, and creating pride in the historic neighborhood. 
“It’s a great opportunity for area residents, visitors and businesses to explore the area while giving some TLC,” said James Little, Neighborhood District Manager for REV Birmingham. “Also, if anyone in the community notices a troublesome spot—litter, graffiti, etc.—we can add it to the list to address during the next during Clean and Clear.” 
During the cleanup on March 24, teams comprised of neighborhood residents, UAB students, members of the Birmingham Police Department and employees of Daniel Corporation took to key areas in Five Points South for beautification efforts. These efforts included: 

• cleaning shrub beds 
• trimming trees 
• removing weeds 
• clearing 582 feet of sidewalks 
• collecting 2900 pounds of trash and debris 

“Volunteering for Clean and Clear we hope will become a staple for residents, visitors and business owners,” Little said. “There are always many projects and needs to tackle … and we hope to see how much our community can get done during these events.” 
Clean and Clear events are usually held quarterly – and those volunteer efforts certainly add up! Here’s the combined impact from three Clean and Clear events in 2017: 

• 106 volunteers 
• 331 volunteer hours 
• 2720 feet of alley/sidewalk cleaned and cleared 
• 3812 pounds of trash and debris collected 

Anyone can volunteer for upcoming Clean and Clear Five Points South events! Watch the Five Points South Facebook page for updated information.