4 Neighborhoods, 4 Parks, 1 Mission

Black Minds Matter Foundation & Chicago Parks Foundation July 5th cleanup across 4 Chicago parks 2 clean them after the July 4th festivities
About this Event

About This Event

Chicago Parks Foundation Presents:
Pitch In w/ Black Minds Matter Foundation: 4 Neighborhoods, 4 Parks, 1 Mission

Before Black Minds Matter Foundation officially launches in 2027, we are beginning the work now.

This July 5th cleanup is BMMF’s first public pilot initiative in partnership with Chicago Parks Foundation’s Pitch In for the Parks program.

The goal is simple: show up for our communities, serve with care, and help restore cleaner, safer spaces for children, youth, families, and neighbors after the holiday.

4 neighborhoods. 4 parks. 1 mission.

Volunteers will help with trash pick-up and light cleanup around playgrounds, youth-centered spaces, park perimeters, benches, courts, and nearby family gathering areas.

The day after the fireworks, we show up.

Choose Your Park
Please register for the park where you would like to volunteer. Each location has 20 volunteer spots available.
Metcalfe Park — Bronzeville

Meeting Location: Metcalfe Park Playground, near State & Root Streets
Address: 4134 S. State St., Chicago, IL
Time: Sunday, July 5, 2026, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM CT

Hermitage Park — Englewood

Meeting Location: Hermitage Park Playground, near 59th & Wood Streets
Address: 5839 S. Wood St., Chicago, IL
Time: Sunday, July 5, 2026, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM CT

Woodhull Park — South Shore

Meeting Location: Woodhull Park Playground, near 73rd & East End Ave.
Address: 7340 S. East End Ave., Chicago, IL
Time: Sunday, July 5, 2026, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM CT

Railroad Junction Park — Greater Grand Crossing

Meeting Location: Railroad Junction Park
Address: 7334 S. Maryland Ave., Chicago, IL
Time: Sunday, July 5, 2026, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM CT

Volunteer Requirements

This is a free, family-friendly cleanup. Please register in advance so we can prepare enough materials.

Youth volunteers should be accompanied by an adult or participate with adult supervision.

Volunteers should wear comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, and weather-appropriate gear. Long pants are strongly encouraged.

Protective gloves will be provided and must be worn during cleanup. Volunteers should avoid hazardous materials such as glass, needles, sharp objects, bodily fluids, or anything that appears unsafe.

This event is rain or shine. Please bring water and come prepared for sun, bugs, and outdoor conditions.

Parking

Street parking may be available near each park, but availability may vary. Please carpool if possible, arrive early, follow posted signs, and avoid blocking driveways, alleys, bus stops, hydrants, or residential access points.

Donations

Can’t volunteer but still want to support?

Monetary donations help support volunteer hospitality, food, water, supplies, and cleanup preparation.