ReUse - Community Partners Program

Buffalo ReUse Launches

Community Partners Program

Employees from National Grid
assist ReUse in beautifying
the Cold Spring neighborhood

Buffalo, NY -- On Earth Day, Buffalo ReUse launches its ReACT! Program, an initiative to mobilize volunteers from local corporations and organizations to actively engage in the strengthening of inner-city neighborhoods.

On Thursday, April 22nd, as our community celebrates Earth Day, from 8am until 3pm, 35 National Grid employees will join the Community Programs staff at ReUse to transform vacant lots into community assets by constructing planters for street corners and building perimeter fences to eliminate illegal dumping.

Caesandra Seawell, Director of Community Programs said, “We piloted the ReACT! Program last year as we hosted over 50 volunteers from HSBC. Corporate groups can bring a lot of energy to neighborhoods. They support improvement projects through the purchase of supplies and then they bring an infusion of muscle power to get the job done in a day or less." ReUse is eager to expand this program in 2010 and make dramatic impacts on our Cold Spring neighborhood.

Preparations began almost two months ago. Today will include the construction of a new Rain Garden at the corner of Northampton and Michigan Streets under the direction of horticulturalist, Matthew Dore. The corner will have an impressive new landscape and incorporates details the nearby neighbors will enjoy as well low-maintenance native perennials and edibles. The one-of-a-kind planters are constructed from reclaimed lumber and they will be placed at all the major intersections on Northampton. Finally, a street blitz that will spruce up the neighborhood and clear it of litter. Volunteer Coordinator Rachel Matthews said, “We’re excited by all the volunteers that are expressing interest in getting involved in the neighborhood, together we’re rolling up our sleeves, digging our hands in, and getting the job done.”

Buffalo ReUse encourages corporate groups and organizations interested in community service to get involved. The ReACT! Program offers a unique opportunity for small, medium, and large groups to participate in tangible projects and make a difference in the neighborhood. Projects are being scheduled now for the Spring, Summer, and Fall of 2010.

To see photos of the National Grid project with Buffalo ReUse on Earth DAY, click here.