Forest Hills, NY – A group of nonprofit organizations, elected officials, and local business owners announced Tuesday they would commence a new series of monthly community cleanups on Metropolitan Avenue in Forest Hills, taking place from March through at least the end of the 2023-24 school year.

The grouping includes Metro Village of Forest Hills, Community Board 6, Assemblyman Andrew Hevesi, Council Member Lynn Schulman, Senator Joe Addabbo, the Forest Hills Green Team, and Forest Hills Stadium, and was formed at the culmination of a series of local cleanups organized by separate groups throughout 2023.

The first effort is scheduled to begin Saturday, March 9 at 10am, with volunteers meeting outside Aigner Chocolates at 103-02 Metropolitan Avenue in Forest Hills. Those looking for more information are advised to email metrovillagefh@gmail.com or contact Assemblyman Hevesi, Council Member Schulman, or Senator Addabbo’s district offices.

“Metro Village of Forest Hills is so grateful to be part of a neighborhood where community members, leaders, and elected officials are dedicated to working together to improve the community. We look forward to participating in this ongoing beautification project and are hopeful that community members of all ages will get involved, including my 5-year-old son, Jacob. We want the streets of Metropolitan Avenue to reflect the beauty inside the shops,” said Rachel Kellner, founder of Metro Village of Forest Hills.

“Keeping our neighborhoods neat and tidy is everyone's responsibility. We look forward to rolling up our sleeves and doing our part,” said Heather Beers-Dimitriadis, Chair, Queens Community Board 6.

“We thought this was a great opportunity to offer consistent volunteer chances, meet neighbors, and keep this area looking beautiful,” said Assemblyman Andrew Hevesi. “Between this – and with our sponsors and groups like Friends of MacDonald Park continuing to organize individually – there is going to be an abundance of opportunities this spring. We can’t wait to see everyone.”

“I am happy to partner with my colleagues in government as well as Metro Village of Forest Hills to help clean up Metropolitan Avenue and I look forward to our continued partnership to ensure the avenue continues to be an inviting destination for visitors and shoppers,” said Council Member Lynn Schulman.

Senator Joseph P. Addabbo Jr., said, “I look forward to getting outside with my office team and working with our partners to make sure our communities are clean and hygienic. This is a great opportunity to build friendships and have a hand in ensuring we can be proud of our neighborhoods.”

“Forest Hills Green Team looks forward to working with all our partners on this community clean up event series. Metropolitan Avenue is heavily traveled, so clean up efforts here are especially needed, and will have significant visual benefits for neighbors. It's a good complement to our landscape planting and beautification project at the nearby LIRR overpass area nearby on Yellowstone Blvd,” said Dan Miner, co-chair of the Forest Hills Green Team.

“The Stadium is so proud to be part of the fabric of Forest Hills – a magical neighborhood with a generous and supportive community. The Stadium team remains ready and happy to engage and be helpful. Thanks to all our elected officials for driving this traditional outing,” said Mike Luba, President of Forest Hills Stadium.