In a recent public meeting, Chester County's commitment to environmental stewardship was clear as Commissioners Josh Maxwell, Marian Moskowitz, and Eric Roe acknowledged the efforts of local hero Dave Shirey and the non-profit Recycling Services Inc. (RSI), each honored with the Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful 2024 awards. Shirey, named "Volunteer of the Year," and RSI, as the Community Partner award recipient, were highlighted for their substantial contributions to the cleanliness and aesthetic appeal of the area.
Shirey's notable commitment, spanning eight years, involves coordinating an extensive litter cleanup across 80 locations in southern Chester County, galvanizing over 100 volunteers into action. The annual event, which grows each year, has become a testament to community engagement and the collective effort to maintain the local environment. "He is a wonderful person who always stops what he is doing to come pick me up if I walk too far during a cleanup,” shared Kelly McDowell on the County of Chester official website—a previous Volunteer of the Year awardee—in a statement that reflects the spirit of camaraderie the event fosters.
RSI made a significant impact by offering their North Coventry site as the collection point for a county-wide campaign sign recycling initiative last November. During a two-week period, their facilities became the hub of activity, where volunteers helped manage the influx of steel and plastic signs brought in from four locations, culminating in over 600 pounds of plastic and more than four thousand pounds of steel ready for recycling.
The commendable actions of both awardees led to them receiving citations from the County Commissioners, these presentations, at the recommendation of Keep Chester County Beautiful staff members Ryan Mawhinney and Carrie Conwell. As the community recognizes such eco-friendly milestones, it's the dedication and unsung efforts of individuals and organizations like Shirey and RSI that help mold a sustainable future for Chester County and its residents.
To discover more about the positive environmental change-makers in Chester County, visit Keep Chester County Beautiful's website or follow their journey on social platforms, where they provide updates on ongoing and upcoming projects aimed at preserving the scenic and ecological beauty of the region.
