How to Host a Park Clean-Up in San Francisco

Step 6 DAY-OF PREPARATION

ARRIVE EARLY. That is, before any of the other volunteers do--you don't want people waiting around awkwardly and then leaving because they think it's been canceled. This shouldn't be too hard if you plan to meet with your Park Department friend before the clean-up begins so you can get all the necessary gear. You'll also want to make sure that you have plenty of time to set up all that free food you got.

If you're with an organization that is, uh, organizing this event, you'll probably want to set up an INFORMATION TABLE. A surprising amount of people will be curious about what people with picker-uppers and trash bags are doing. Take this opportunity to tell them about why it is you're doing this, and to invite them to join. (So remember to have extra clean-up gear ready.) The information table could also serve as a place for walk-by neighbors to talk to you about their other neighborhoodly concerns.