Hilvarenbeek celebrates volunteers during National Cleanup Day with local heroes
Residents and municipal leaders in Hilvarenbeek joined forces on National Cleanup Day to tackle litter and honor dedicated volunteers. Their efforts highlight how community action keeps neighborhoods cleaner and fosters environmental awareness among all ages.
| Key Data Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | National Cleanup Day |
| Location | Hilvarenbeek, Noord-Brabant |
| Volunteer Highlight | Bart Liebregts (‘SuperBart’), active for 7+ years |
| Volunteer Group | Baarschot cleanup team (12 members, twice-yearly cleanups) |
| Municipal Support | Provides tools like litter collection carts for volunteers |
| Community Impact | Reduced litter in Baarschot, increased awareness among families |
| Local Business | De Nieuwe Hoef inn encourages visitors to pick up litter |
The municipality of Hilvarenbeek plays a key role in supporting community-driven environmental initiatives by providing resources and recognition to volunteers. Their involvement underscores the importance of local governance in fostering sustainable living and civic engagement.
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Recognition for volunteers takes center stage during National Cleanup Day in Hilvarenbeek
Armed with litter grabbers and a fresh dose of enthusiasm, several members of the municipal executive took to the streets on Saturday during National Cleanup Day. Their mission was not only to clean up litter themselves but, above all, to show appreciation for the many volunteers who work tirelessly every day to keep Hilvarenbeek cleaner and more livable.
From hobby to mission
The morning began in the village center of Hilvarenbeek, where the executive met Bart Liebregts, better known in the community as ‘SuperBart’. What started as a small bucket during his time as a truck driver has grown into a serious passion. Bart has now been an active litter volunteer for over seven years.
With his own homemade tools and even a cargo bike, he sets out to collect as much litter as possible. “You come across all sorts of things, from car tires to entire sofas,” he says. “But glass in nature is the worst.” His dedication does not go unnoticed: Bart also involves his grandchildren in his mission, teaching them the importance of waste separation and respect for nature.
Together with the executive, he set off through the center to pick up litter, an activity that, according to those present, was not only useful but also brought people together.
Enjoying a clean environment at De Nieuwe Hoef
After a short journey, the group continued their route to Gorp aan de Leij, where they were warmly welcomed at inn De Nieuwe Hoef by Lieke van der Zanden and her partner. Here, the focus is not only on hospitality but also on taking responsibility for nature. Visitors to the inn are actively encouraged to pick up litter during their walks. “It’s very satisfying,” says Lieke. “First do something good together, then enjoy a cup of coffee.” Families with children in particular seem eager to participate, contributing to awareness among both young and old.
Baarschot joins forces to keep the village clean
The day concluded in Baarschot, where the executive spoke with a close-knit group of volunteers led by Jac Linnemans, Annemie Vennix, and Gerard Smits. This group of about twelve people takes action twice a year to keep the village clean. While they used to go out four times a year, this has since been reduced thanks to their success: there is simply less litter to clean up. Gerard Smits, who started the initiative by picking up litter while jogging, sees a clear change. “We receive a lot of positive feedback and hope to raise awareness,” he says. The volunteers work along fixed routes of about an hour and use materials provided by the municipality, such as the litter collection cart available to associations.
Working together for a clean future
With visits to these inspiring initiatives, the executive emphasized the importance of collaboration between the municipality and residents. The dedication of volunteers shows that a clean living environment begins with involvement and responsibility.