Artesians are encouraged to help spruce up the city this summer as part of a nationwide program.

The Great American Clean-Up is an annual community improvement program organized by Keep America Beautiful, a nonprofit organization that has more than 700 state and community-based affiliate organizations and more than 1,000 partner organizations.

The program began as a litter clean-up initiative aimed at enhancing the environment by removing litter from parks, streetscapes and public spaces.

The Artesia arm of the program began earlier this spring and will continue until June 22.

According to Linda Stevens, executive director of Artesia Clean & Beautiful, anyone and everyone is encouraged to participate in a cleanup at any time. The city will even provide individuals and groups with clean-up supplies, Stevens said. All she asks for, she said, is communication.

“One person could get a group together, like with their family, their friends, coworkers, a church group, or a civic group,” she said. “Just contact me for supplies, such as trash bags, vests, grabbers, as well as the locations in Artesia that need attention.”

Stevens added that local businesses coming together to aid with the clean-up effort would make a big difference.

“Many large corporations are often strongly requested by their CEOs to give back via community service hours. This shows that they are willing to support the community that supports them,” she said. “The same goes for small businesses. It benefits the community, and it puts you on the same level.”

Since its inception in 1988, the Great American Clean-Up has involved over 500,000 volunteers in 15,000 community events nationwide through local affiliates and partner organizations. Together, they contribute to creating cleaner, safer and healthier environments where people can live, work and play.

A clean city makes a difference, Stevens said. It looks better to residents and visitors, increases town pride, and improves the quality of life.

“Anyone can do a cleanup at any time, just let me know,” she said. “I’ll keep track of how many volunteers are involved, how many hours are spent, and how many bags are picked up. Together, we can keep Artesia beautiful.”

If you would like to participate or would like more information, contact Stevens by calling 575-748-3192.