AOPPYC Community Clean Up Efforts Continue
Emma Hughes
Gila River Indian News
The Akimel O’odham/Pee-Posh Youth Council (AOPPYC) resumes clean ups throughout the Community. Beginning in District 1 on Saturday, Nov. 5, AOPPYC members, advisers, and volunteers gathered trash in the area while also assisting elders with yard maintenance.
They collected over 30 bags of trash that day. GRIC’s Department of Rehabilitation and Supervision staff also assist AOPPYC with cleaning and hauling away garbage bags and any large debris.
“It’s good just to maintain the Community and what we have, and to preserve what we want, keep it clean and for the wildlife in the area,” said AOPPYC member Tizoc Ayala, District 1.
Ayala says cleaning will also help prevent any animals from possible illness. While cleaning in District 1, most of the trash found had been torn apart and chewed up by dogs and wildlife.
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the AOPPYC held regular Community clean ups, open to anyone who’d like to assist.
“I’m happy that we’re doing them again, it’s fun to have other people that aren’t on youth council, come out and interact with us and help us beautify the Community,” said AOPPYC member Junior Pancott, District 2, “We use to have a lot turn out, and slowly we’re starting to see those numbers come out again.”
On Saturday, Dec. 17, the AOPPYC continued the clean up events in District 2, picking up trash and debris along the roadways of Hasan Kehk and Mish Ki.
“A lot of traffic comes through here, these are the main roads so I think that it’s good to have a clean Community,” said Charity Marquez, AOPPYC member and District 2 resident.
Marquez joined youth council over a year ago and enjoys putting together events for members of the AOPPYC and Community.
“It makes me feel good as a person too,” she said, “It’s good to see people come out, who aren’t members of youth council. It’s something that everyone can do.”
AOPPYC shared that they are always open to suggestions from the Community on events and invites anyone to participate.
Trash bags, cleaning tools, water, and snacks are all provided to those participating. The next clean up will be held in District 3 on Saturday, Jan. 21, 2023 at 8 a.m. For more information, contact AOPPYC at youthcouncil@gric.nsn.us or call (520) 562-1866.
