Youth groups are cleaning up Tennessee and stepping up in a big way to protect and beautify our environment. From cities to small towns, young leaders are dreaming of change. They are rolling up their sleeves and making a tangible impact through various programs and initiatives. In doing so, these youth groups prove that age is no barrier to creating a cleaner Tennessee.
Girl Scouts of America
The Girl Scouts of America are one of the largest youth groups cleaning up Tennessee. The are making significant strides in litter prevention through TDOT’s Nobody Trashes Tennessee (NTT) Patch program. Initially the program launched in 2023 with the Girl Scouts of Middle Tennessee. Since then, it has expanded to include the Girl Scouts Heart of the South and Girl Scouts of Southern Appalachians, now covering all of Tennessee. In just the first two months alone, nearly 1,000 Girl Scouts earned their patches through cleanups and other service projects. Furthermore, through various activities like completing educational worksheets, litter cleanups, beautification projects, girls of all ages are able to get involved. Scouts and other youth groups can also clean up Tennessee by participating in special events like No Trash November, the Great American Cleanup and Keep Tennessee Beautiful Month. The Girl Scouts’ commitment to environmental education and community service is making a meaningful impact across the state.
Boy Scouts of America
The Boy Scouts of America in Tennessee have fully embraced the Nobody Trashes Tennessee (NTT) Patch program, too. With all six Boy Scout councils – Sequoya Council, Middle Tennessee Council, Cherokee Council, West Tennessee Council, Great Smoky Mountain Council and Chickasaw Council participating, Scouts of all ages have numerous ways to earn their patches. Whether by completing educational worksheets, participating in litter cleanups, or organizing their cleanup efforts in their neighborhoods or school grounds, the opportunities are diverse. For Scouts ages 12 and up, the Adopt-A-Highway program provides an opportunity to earn both a patch and a roadway recognition panel for their commitment to quarterly pickups. In addition, this initiative fosters a sense of environmental stewardship and instills values of civic responsibility and leadership in young Scouts.
The American Heritage Girls
American Heritage Girls (AHG) across Tennessee are actively participating in environmental stewardship through various initiatives. The group has a strong focus on community service and preserving natural spaces. For example, AHG Troops engage in a wide range of activities, including litter cleanups in local parks, schools, and neighborhoods. They also participates in educational programs that emphasize the importance of maintaining a clean and healthy environment. As a result of their involvement in these activities, these girls are contributing to a cleaner Tennessee and are able to develop skills and values that will guide them in future endeavors.
The Cleanup Kids
The Cleanup Kids is a youth-led nonprofit organization dedicated to environmental conservation. By focusing on the removal of litter and pollution from communities, they aim to protect Earth’s natural resources while also tackling issues like plastic pollution, climate change, and habitat destruction. In addition to organizing direct action cleanups, the group engages in public awareness campaigns, and collaborates with officials to create meaningful change.
In Hamilton County, The Cleanup Kids made a notable impact during No Trash November by removing 340 pounds of litter from their community. As a result of this remarkable effort, they earned them special recognition as the Youth Group that collected the most litter during the event. Their determination and teamwork are shining examples of how young people can make a substantial difference in their local environments.
Trash Tracker Program at Adventure Science Center
The Youth CR3W program at Nashville’s Adventure Science Center offers a unique educational experience. The group learns by combining environmental action with scientific analysis. One of their standout initiatives is the Trash Tracker group. Not only does the group collect litter but also analyzes the waste collected from around the Science Center’s property. Their work culminates in the creation of an evolving infographic that visually represents the impact of litter on the environment. The program also recognizes outstanding dedication through the Trash Trackers Scholarship. This year the award went to Valary Adedire, a 9th grader at Hillsboro High School. Valary’s exceptional commitment to the program highlights the profound impact that young people can have on their communities.
Inspiring the Next Generation
These stories of youth groups cleaning up Tennessee demonstrate the incredible impact that young people can have on their communities. By participating in programs like Nobody Trashes Tennessee, these kids are able to learn about environmental stewardship. They are taking direct action to protect the places they live, learn, and play.
It’s clear that the next generation is ready and eager to meet the challenge of keeping Tennessee beautiful. Whether they are involved in Scouts, school groups, or other organizations, their actions today are making a lasting difference, one cleanup at a time.
