Volunteers Make a Difference, Clean Up Perris Hill Park

The community of San Bernardino banded together and helped clean up Perris Hill Park on Saturday, Oct. 26. Organized by the Neighborhood Association Council (N.A.C.) “Make a Difference Day” was a chance for residents to revitalize a location that many view as an important part of the city. Due to economic cutbacks in San Bernardino county, community events are more important than ever, according to volunteers on site over the weekend. “It’s a responsibility. The city needs help now because of the bankruptcy,” said Charlé Jacobs, vice president of Terrace West of the Neighborhood Association Council. “This is an opportunity for the community to do cleanups, and for everyone to help out the neighborhood. It helps to make the community aware that there are associations in the city, and it is a great opportunity to show people that we care as a community, and how they become parts of making a difference.” Perris Hill Park provides the surrounding neighborhoods a locale for events that would not be hosted otherwise. San Bernardino resident Katrina Bahamonde commented, “People who live in apartments don’t have the opportunity to have large gatherings. They have birthday parties here and they fill up the park … You want to see people coming out in the community and enjoying themselves.” Edwina Young also volunteered her services. “I love Perris Hill Park. It is something special for me from my teenage years. It needs help and I am here to do just that.” Volunteer Corie Lopez explained, “I think that it is really great that the residents are coming out to clean up, especially since it has been years since I’ve come to the park. I am just glad that I can be here to help out.” Nancilynne Brown-Thomas shared the story of how she once had to utilize Perris Hill Park in a way she never thought she would have to. Seven years ago, she and her family once slept in Perris Hill Park after their St. Louis home burned down. She said, “Being very familiar with this park, my family and I felt like we should find a way to continue to give back. That is why we are here; it is a way to show appreciation.” The Neighborhood Association Council provided rakes, shovels and telescoping pole saws for the volunteers who were at the park early Saturday removing debris and litter from the park. “It takes one hour of our time. We can have our parks beautiful again with a clean area for our kids to play,” said Bahamonde. The event was sponsored by the Neighborhood Associations Council, partnered with San Bernardino City Parks and Public Works. The city organizes community cleanup events like “Make a Difference Day” to promote community involvement.