The inaugural Oakhurst Facelift, sponsored by the Yosemite Climbing Association and Visit Yosemite | Madera County, successfully mobilized the local community to beautify and restore two beloved natural spaces. On Saturday, October 5, the event drew over 56 dedicated volunteers who gathered near Oakhurst Community Park in just over five hours. Volunteers cleared litter from the Oakhurst River Parkway Trail and the Lewis Creek Trail, ensuring both highly trafficked trails after a busy summer. Together, these efforts resulted in the removal of over 1,800 lbs of trash and debris, including 13 abandoned shopping carts from the river.
This remarkable effort highlighted Oakhurst residents’ deep pride and individual commitment to their community. Volunteers spanned all ages and groups, from members of the Yosemite High School Eco Club to parents with their children and retired community members, all eager to make a difference. Representatives from the Sierra Sunrise Rotary, Oakhurst River Parkway Trail Organization, and Yosemite Sequoia Resource Council also joined in, showcasing a united front of community organizations and residents working hand in hand.
Brooke Smith, Director of Sales and Marketing, recounted, “When a father and his daughter arrived with the express intention of pulling every single shopping cart out of the creek, and they succeeded without any heavy equipment, it was truly inspiring. They told me they were tired of seeing the trash and saw this as their opportunity to get involved and make a real difference. Witnessing the overwhelming support from our community members and seeing how many people cared enough to help clean up really brought tears to my eyes. It was a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we come together for a common cause.”
The generous support of local businesses amplified the event’s success. Bee’s Bakery Cafe welcomed volunteers with hot coffee and fresh pastries, energizing the crowd before the cleanup began. EMADCO supplied essential tools, including dumpsters, recycling bins, gloves, and employees, while Discover Yosemite ensured smooth transportation for participants up to the Lewis Creek Trail. Back at the Oakhurst Community Park, the Yosemite Climbing Association rolled up their sleeves to sort and weigh the collected garbage, a crucial element of the Facelift events. To wrap up the afternoon, a raffle was held with incredible prizes from local businesses and the Yosemite Climbing Association, and everyone was welcomed at South Gate Brewing Company for an afterparty.
“The Oakhurst Facelift event is the type of grass-roots community-member-based event that WORKS. People showed up with enthusiasm and finished inspired.” Expressed Ashley Nebeker from the Eastern Madera County Fire Safe Council. She continued, “The event hosts, commnuity members, and sponsors hit a home run. I know that the next event will be just as fun, impactful, and fabulous as this one, if not more so.”
The impact of the Oakhurst Facelift extends beyond a single day of service. With the Oakhurst Fall Festival taking place the following weekend, October 11-13, 2024, at Oakhurst Community Park, the revitalized trails and spaces will welcome residents and visitors, showcasing the collective pride and commitment that define this community.
To get involved in additional Yosemite Climbing Association Facelifts, please visit https://www.yosemiteclimbing.
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