EAST HANOVER — “One Day One School” volunteers will be beautifying East Hanover Central Elementary School, on Saturday, October 19 from 9:15 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
“One Day One School” is a nationally recognized volunteer school grounds cleanup and educational program based on the simple idea that a single day of volunteer teamwork goes a long way in making the community’s school grounds cleaner and safer.
Organizers met on Wednesday, October 2 at East Hanover Middle School, to discuss what work is needed to be completed, safety concerns, equipment requirements and even the preparation of lunch. Volunteers are needed for many different work assignments.
East Hanover K-8 Schools Superintendent Natalee Bartlett said “Volunteers are needed and welcomed.” Lunch will be served.
The program brings together tree experts, school officials, town representatives, local companies and students, all volunteering their own time and efforts to make their community school grounds cleaner and safer.
Hanover Township Committeeman Thomas “Ace” Gallagher runs the program working alongside planning teams from East Hanover and Hanover Township maximizing resources across multiple municipalities to support the beautification effort.
One Day One School entering its 12th year, is based on the simple idea that a single day of volunteer teamwork will go along way in making the community’s school grounds cleaner and safer.
Gallagher owns Ace Gallagher Stump Grinding Service of Whippany and he noticed dead tree branches hanging over a path as he walked his son to Salem Drive School more than twelve years ago.
After he enlisted several area companies and local officials, the first full-scale event took place in 2007 at Ridgedale Middle School in Florham Park with many of the school’s own students among the group of enthusiastic volunteers.
“There is a lot of planning involved, and the number one priority to safety,” said Gallagher.
Since then, the “environmental makeover” initiative has steadily expanded to include the participation of several additional tree services, school officials, town representatives, public works departments and community organizations along with other local companies and sponsors.
An environmental education element has also been incorporated into the program itself.
