VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT: AUGUST 2011
Megan Sullivan
Occupation/Company/Organization/Position/Retired:
Project Manager, East 10th Street Civic Association
Windsor Park Resident
How long have you been volunteering with Keep Indianapolis Beautiful?
I began volunteering with KIB a little more than a year ago when I agreed to adopt my block in Windsor Park. These days, I’m also working very closely with the Keep Indianapolis Beautiful team on The Connect10n project on East 10th Street. Together, and with the support of several other partners, we are working to transform the neighborhood gateway at the intersection of East 10th Street, Mass Ave and the Cultural and Monon Trails.
Why do you choose to volunteer with KIB?
I initially got involved because the Adopt-a-Block program was a flexible way I could donate my time and make an impact in an area I see everyday. What I failed to consider was how rewarding it would be to see my neighbors begin to take more pride in our block. I choose to stay involved with KIB because the organization is such a fantastic example of how you really can make a difference one block, median, or interstate tree-planting at a time. And the people? KIB’s dynamic team radiates positive energy – must be something in the water down there! Or would that be local beer?
What impact do you feel that the work with KIB has on the community?
The work of KIB improves the quality of life all across our city. We know that the addition of trees in urban environments helps reduce runoff and improve air quality and reduce stress. More importantly to me though, Keep Indianapolis Beautiful is working every day to educate Indy on the importance of including vibrant, sustainable green spaces in our city. In the process, neighbors on all sides of town are taking pride in their environments, and getting involved in ways never imagined.
What is your favorite memory of volunteering with KIB?
That’s easy – I’ve been able to help at a few flower-giveaways and I’ve really loved seeing how excited volunteers are when they earn flowers to continue their efforts. It is also really impressive to see the diversity of Adopt-a-Block captains from around the city. In October of this year, I’ll have the opportunity to see and participate in the annual Lilly Day of Service, so that may soon be my new favorite memory!
Information you would like to share about your family and/or background (schooling, hometown, spouse/partner, children, etc)?
I have been really fortunate to travel much of the world – unbelievably (even to myself sometimes) I have visited more than 50 countries and countless cities. Still, Indianapolis is the city that calls me home. We are so lucky to live in an affordable, friendly city with world-class amenities. Nope, Indy isn’t perfect, but I am reminded every day that there are dedicated citizens out there willing to work hard, dig deep and give selflessly to continue improving our beautiful city.
