Great UIndy Cleanup looks to beautify UIndy campus and University Heights neighborhood

The University of Indianapolis Center for Service-Learning & Community Engagement is hosting this year’s Great UIndy Cleanup on Saturday, April 18, beginning at 10 a.m. and lasting through 1 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 projects include installing a fire pit at University Heights Church, cleaning graffiti, erecting educational signage in the native plant preservation park, adding a newly developed water recycling system and building dog stations and birdhouses.

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 and the University Heights Neighborhood Association. Campus groups are also participating, including UIndy’s Student Affairs, Athletics, Facilities and University of Indianapolis Gardens.

“Events like the Great UIndy Cleanup play a vital role in strengthening our connection to the community and building meaningful and reciprocal relationships,” said Marianna Foulkrod, director of the Center for Service-Learning & Community Engagement. “The Great UIndy Cleanup is about more than just a day of service—it’s about consistently engaging with our community partners and people who live in the neighborhood in ways that create lasting impact. We’re grateful for the opportunity to come together with volunteers from across campus and the community, using acts of service contributing toward something bigger than ourselves.”

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 tailgate 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 as well as a rain jacket or poncho because of the possibility of rain. Snacks and drinks will be provided.

While storms are possible Saturday, the event will continue rain or shine unless there is thunder or lightning. The safety of all volunteers and staff remains the top priority for the event. Volunteers will be notified Friday evening by email and text message if the event has been canceled due to the threat of severe weather.

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 at kleind@uindy.edu.