The Isaac Sterett Adventure Foundation’s third annual Operation Community Cleanup was a major success, drawing 772 volunteers and collecting more than 450 bags of trash across Owensboro and Daviess County.
The event was held on April 26, with participants gathering at 1010 Allen Street before dispersing to pick up litter throughout the community. Volunteers also brought in 70 large items that could not be bagged. In total, 32 teams competed to collect the most waste, with Sutton Elementary taking first place and the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce team earning second.
Katie Sterett, founder of the nonprofit, said the event exceeded expectations, with more schools and organizations participating than ever before.
“We had an amazing turnout and beautiful sunshine,” Sterett said. “It was a spectacular event, and I am so grateful for each volunteer and my Outreach Committee at ISAF. Our town should really be proud.”
Sterett said it was especially meaningful to see students from Daviess County High School involved. On Sunday, the DCHS football, cheer, and dance teams gathered a separate group of 140 volunteers and collected more than 50 bags of trash along New Hartford Road in just an hour.
“Coach Wallace encouraged the teams to work together as a team-building effort and to be servants in our community,” Sterett said. “Isaac would be a freshman at DCHS this year, and it was heartwarming to have this group of kids dedicate themselves to the Foundation’s mission.”
Participation was free, and this year’s event included fun touches like a mascot appearance by Oscar the Grouch and a large trash can-shaped trophy awarded to the winning team.
While the official cleanup was held over the weekend, Sterett said the spirit of the event extends beyond one day.
“You don’t have to do it that day because every bag of trash is a win for the community,” she said. “The goal is to make our city a cleaner, more beautiful place.”
The Foundation plans to host the event again in April 2026. For more information about the Isaac Sterett Adventure Foundation or upcoming events, visit isaacsterettadv.org/upcoming-events.
