On Tuesday, March 25, the Whittier Tech SkillsUSA chapter held a successful fundraiser at American Flatbread in Georgetown, MA, raising over $1,300 at this event to support their collaborative environmental project with the Clean River Project. These funds will contribute to the purchase of a boom that will be placed in the Merrimack River this spring, helping to capture and contain debris and further the mission of restoring the river’s health.
The Whittier Tech SkillsUSA chapter has partnered with the Clean River Project to make a lasting impact on the Merrimack River, a vital source of drinking water for over 500,000 residents. Through hands-on involvement and innovative problem-solving, Whittier Tech students are actively contributing to the environmental effort to clean up the river.
The Clean River Project, led by Rocky Morrison, has made remarkable strides in removing pollution from the river, including nearly 100 abandoned cars and over 20,000 discarded tires. In support of this mission, Whittier Tech’s SkillsUSA student leaders have committed to raising $2,500 to purchase a boom for the project. Their fundraising efforts will culminate in a school-wide cleanup day when the sponsored boom will be installed later this Spring.
“Our students have shown incredible dedication to this cause, taking the initiative to raise funds and contribute meaningful solutions,” said Jane Moskevitz, Whittier Tech SkillsUSA Lead Advisor. “It’s inspiring to see young people step up and take action to protect our environment.”
Last fall, on November 6, students from Whittier Tech’s CAD, Engineering, and Marine Technology programs visited the Clean River Project’s headquarters in Methuen. They toured the facility, witnessed cleanup operations firsthand, and have since been working alongside their instructors and Rocky Morrison to design a conveyor belt system to mount on a pontoon boat, streamlining the debris removal process.
“This project is a fantastic example of how students can take what they learn in the classroom and apply it to solve real-world problems,” said Emily Shea, a Whittier Tech CAD Instructor. “The impact of their work will be felt not just by the community today, but for generations to come.”
“I never expected to be involved in something like this, but it’s been eye-opening,” said Mia Medeiros, a Whittier Tech student specializing in Marine Technology. “Knowing that our efforts are helping clean up a river that so many people depend on makes all the hard work worth it.”
About Whittier Tech SkillsUSA
SkillsUSA is a national organization that empowers students to become world-class workers, leaders, and responsible American citizens. Whittier Tech’s chapter provides students with opportunities to develop leadership skills and engage in meaningful community service projects.
About the Clean River Project
The Clean River Project is a nonprofit organization dedicated to cleaning and protecting the Merrimack River. Led by Rocky Morrison, the project has removed thousands of pieces of debris from the river, making it safer and healthier for both wildlife and surrounding communities.