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Great UIndy Cleanup looks to beautify campus and University Heights neighborhood

April 25, 2025 in Press Releases

The University of Indianapolis Center for Service-Learning & Community Engagement is hosting this year’s Great UIndy Cleanup on Saturday, April 26, beginning at 10 a.m. and lasting through 2 p.m. More than 100 people have already signed up to beautify the campus and the surrounding University Heights community by picking up trash, gardening and removing invasive species. Other service projects are planned to help people in need including making sleeping blankets for the homeless, creating dog toys from recyclable materials for animal shelters and beautifying the community spaces and gardens to serve the adults with life-altering diagnoses at Joy’s House.

The Great UIndy Cleanup highlights the University model of Education for Service. The event is a partnership with the city of Indianapolis, Keep Indianapolis Beautiful, Marion County Public Health, University Heights Methodist Church, Crop Hunger Inc., Marion County Prosecutor’s Office and the University Heights Neighborhood Association. Campus groups are also participating, including UIndy’s Student Affairs, the Office of Inclusive Excellence & Retention Strategy, Athletics, Facilities and University of Indianapolis Gardens.

Students cleaning up

“Events like the Great UIndy Cleanup are key to maintaining engagement with our communities and building meaningful and reciprocal relationships,” said Marianna Foulkrod, director of the Center for Service-Learning & Community Engagement. “We look forward to the opportunity to serve alongside our amazing community partners, neighborhood residents, students, faculty and staff, as well as their families, to celebrate our community and our togetherness through service.”

Everyone is encouraged to join registered participants at 10 a.m. on the Smith Mall, near the canal and Esch Hall. Those who register in advance for the Great UIndy Cleanup will receive a free t-shirt, lunch and be invited to a block party following the main event. 

Participants should wear shoes and clothing that is suitable for walking and working outside. People are also encouraged to bring gloves. Snacks and drinks will be provided.

Members of the media are welcome to attend. For help in arranging interviews about the event, or if you have additional questions or photo needs, please contact UIndy’s Director of Public & Media Relations Dan Klein.