“Rock the Block” Cleaning Up Community

by Jonathan Weaver

More than a half-dozen low income families in Wick City are set to have their own ‘extreme makeovers’ next weekend.

Starting at 9AM Saturday, July 16, homeowners such as along Fair Street, Johnston Avenue and Orr Avenue will receive some much-need improvements to their properties - from painting and power washing to mulching and planting – as part of “Rock the Block.”

Executive Director Mike McElhaney said about 10 homes could be refurbished before sunset.

“We’re trying to get as many people out that morning, mid-day, afternoon,” McElhaney said. “Any age is OK – so Scouts can come, kids can come, Grandma can come.”

As well as being “jam packed” with volunteer work, a stage for live music and food vendors will be in the First Church of the Nazarene parking lot. Children’s games were also proposed.

“Our whole idea is to build, but we’re trying to create a little bit of a carnival atmosphere also,” McElhaney said.

WalMart in East Franklin Township is brainstormed to donate items such as water bottles and fruit, as well as employee labor. The local branch also offers up to $10,000 in grants each year.

Assistant Manager Teresa Cogley works with community outreach and donations, and will volunteer next week. She previously helped paint a house along Johnston Avenue.

“We’re sustained by the community – we’re a community store, so we always want to give back,” Cogley said.

“Rock the Block” kicks off the three-year Wick City Revitalization and Beautification Project discussed earlier this year.

Volunteers can call McElhaney at 724-467-2771 or email him at mike@armstronghabitat.org to sign up. Though the main event is Saturday, volunteers will be accepted to help all next week.

Volunteers are requested to say if they can bring supplies, such as shovels, wheel barrows and power washers, for use next week as well. Items will be returned if marked or they can be donated.