Community, collaboration, and climate action mark Earth Day at Garden City

by Ann Evangelista

	Ramon Sales, Carolina Legaspi, Bing Medrano, Atasha Abquilen, Recycle Everywhere Ambassadors, Chris Clacio, Ann Evangelista, and a community member

In the lead-up to Earth Day on April 22, community spirit and environmental stewardship were on full display at Garden City Shopping Centre, where Caring for Our Environment Manitoba (CEM) partnered with Recycle Everywhere to host an engaging and educational celebration.

Under the theme Our Power, Our Planet: Act Today, Protect Tomorrow, the April 18 event brought together volunteers, families, and shoppers for a day of awareness-building and practical action. With support from the Recycle Everywhere Brand Ambassador team, volunteers distributed bin bags and connected with community members of all ages, sparking meaningful conversations about recycling habits and environmental responsibility.

The event emphasized that sustainability is not limited to large-scale initiatives; it begins with everyday choices. Children and adults alike participated in discussions about waste reduction, proper recycling, and the collective impact of small actions. Organizers noted that these face-to-face interactions are key to building long-term behavioural change.

“This event reflects what community-driven environmental action looks like,” said Ramon “Jun” Sales. “When people come together with a shared purpose, even simple conversations can lead to lasting impact. We are proud to see our community take ownership of protecting our environment.”

For younger participants, the event also served as a platform for engagement and leadership. Chris Clacio highlighted the importance of youth involvement.

“It’s inspiring to see young people curious, asking questions, and stepping up. Environmental responsibility starts early, and events like this empower the next generation to become advocates for change.”

Communications efforts played a key role in amplifying the event’s message and reach. Ann Evangelista emphasized the importance of storytelling in sustainability work.

“Sharing these moments helps extend the impact beyond the event itself. When people see their community taking action, it encourages others to reflect, participate, and commit to more sustainable practices in their daily lives.”

The collaboration between CEM and Recycle Everywhere highlights the strength of partnerships in advancing environmental education across Manitoba. By combining grassroots volunteerism with established recycling programs, the initiative successfully created an accessible and inclusive space for learning and engagement.

Organizers hope the momentum from Garden City will continue to inspire Manitobans to take action, whether by recycling more consistently, reducing waste, or encouraging others to do the same.

The message was clear: caring for the environment is a shared responsibility that extends beyond a single day.

Let’s continue to care for our Earth, not just on Earth Day, but every day.

Ann Evangelista is the Information and Communication Committee Chair, CEM