Community cleanup brings families and students together at Lausanne Park
Residents, students and community leaders gathered at Lausanne Park on May 30 for the fourth annual spring cleanup organized in Laval’s Saint-Bruno district.
The initiative brought together Saint-Bruno city councillor David De Cotis, environmental volunteer Enrica Uva and Barbara Barrasso, commissioner for Ward 6 of the Sir Wilfrid Laurier School Board.
According to organizers, the annual event drew neighbourhood residents, students from Terry Fox Elementary School and their families, all working toward a shared goal of preserving one of the district’s most popular green spaces.
Growing community tradition
“Our fourth annual cleanup was an incredible success,” De Cotis said in a statement. “This initiative continues to grow year after year because it strengthens our sense of community, promotes environmental responsibility and encourages citizens of all ages to become actively involved in their neighbourhood. I am determined to ensure this tradition continues for many years to come.”
Throughout the morning, volunteers collected litter and helped beautify the park.
Organizers highlighted the participation of Terry Fox Elementary students, describing their enthusiasm and commitment as an inspiring example of civic engagement.
“I was deeply impressed by the energy and dedication demonstrated by these young people,” De Cotis added. “Their participation sends a powerful message about the importance of community involvement and environmental stewardship. They are helping build a stronger and more responsible generation for the future.”
Students recognized for their involvement
Barrasso said initiatives such as the park cleanup help teach students the value of volunteerism and citizenship.
“Our students once again demonstrated that they are capable of accomplishing great things when they rally around a meaningful cause,” she said. “I am extremely proud of their efforts, and I know their families share that pride. Through activities like this, we are helping shape the engaged and compassionate citizens of tomorrow.”
The Sir Wilfrid Laurier School Board encourages projects that foster volunteerism, citizenship and community participation among students and their families.
Families working side by side
For Uva, the cleanup also served as an opportunity to strengthen community bonds while promoting environmental awareness.
“When young people see adults working together to improve their community, they learn that every action matters,” she said. “It was inspiring to see so many families, students and volunteers come together to care for Lausanne Park. By working side by side, we not only create a cleaner environment, but we also strengthen the connections that unite our community.”
Organizers noted that the success of the fourth edition was made possible through the support of community partners and the many volunteers who donated their time to the initiative.
