Through rain and snow, students from the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon University, and Point Park University participated in several spring service projects throughout Oakland.
On March 17, students from Pitt’s Engineers without Borders (EWB) organization cleared a vacant lot on Hamlet Street, filling 40 garden bags with invasive vines, debris and trash. The following day, pledges from Pitt’s Alpha Phi Omega chapter cleared out a house to be sold as part of the Oakland Community Land Trust. Thanks to these volunteers, we are one-step closer to renovating this West Oakland home for future homeowners.
The next weekend, on March 24, OPDC led an Adopt-a-Block event in conjunction with Pitt’s Be a Good Neighbor Day. Student volunteers dispersed throughout Oakland, from the top of Robinson Street down to Frazier Field, picking up trash and beautifying the neighborhood block by block.
On April 7, the Point Park University rugby team, alongside Point Park Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students, Keith Paylo and his daughter, joined South Oakland community members to prepare community gardens in Oakcliffe and South Oakland for the 2018 planting season. Two Point Park students also assisted an elderly South Oakland resident with yard maintenance.
“Point Park University students and staff had an incredible experience working with Oakland community leaders during our Pioneer Community Day. We look forward to many years of growing our relationship with the community and making an impact in the lives of students and neighbors alike to make Oakland the best that it can be,” said Paylo.
Also on April 7, CMU students removed litter along Lawn and Ophelia Streets.
A huge thank you to all the students and community leaders who came out, despite the challenging weather, to give back to their communities.
If you’re interested in volunteering with us, contact 412.621.7863 ext. 17 or aboykowycz@opdc.org.