This spring, Shinnyo-en Foundation proudly sponsored a series of volunteer service events in multiple areas across the United States, bringing together youth, families, and community members in a shared commitment to environmental stewardship and compassionate action. These opportunities reflected the Foundation’s dedication to cultivating leadership through service while strengthening connections with local communities.
In Chicago, Illinois, more than 30 volunteers celebrated Earth Month by participating in the Clean Up Give Back event at East Garfield Park on April 24. Working side by side, participants filled more than 30 bags of trash, helping clean up one of the city’s most in-need neighborhoods.
In Burien, Washington, volunteers gathered on April 25 for the city’s longstanding Clean Sweep event organized by Discover Burien. Shinnyo-en Seattle temple practitioners joined fellow Burien residents in helping keep the downtown area clean and welcoming by collecting litter throughout the community. Their ongoing participation in this annual tradition demonstrated how consistent, local service can contribute to civic pride and environmental care.
On April 25, Shinnyo-en Los Angeles temple practitioners participated in Love Yorba Linda, joining hundreds of volunteers in projects throughout Yorba Linda, California. In addition to serving at community improvement projects, Shinnyo-en LA practitioners hosted an outreach table to share information about Shinnyo-en and Shinnyo-en Foundation with local residents. The day served as a reminder that meaningful change is made possible through the generosity of volunteers, project leaders, sponsors, faith communities, organizations, and families who choose to serve together.
In White Plains, New York, Shinnyo-en practitioners participated in Pitch in for Parks. Westchester Parks Foundation organizes Westchester County’s largest annual Earth Day volunteer initiative, held from April 22–26. Working alongside volunteers from across the county, they helped prepare more than 18,000 acres of parkland for the busy summer season by cleaning and caring for public parks that benefit thousands of visitors each year.
The annual Spring Cleanup in Redwood City, California brought together 50 volunteers on May 9, some of which were Shinnyo-en practitioners from the Head Temple. Hosted by the City of Redwood City’s Pride and Beautification Committee, participants began the morning with breakfast before receiving supplies and heading to cleanup sites across the city. Their work helped beautify neighborhoods and public spaces while fostering a spirit of community partnership during Mother’s Day weekend.
Across every city, these service projects demonstrated that acts of care—whether picking up litter, restoring public spaces, or engaging neighbors—can inspire stronger communities. By supporting these volunteer opportunities, Shinnyo-en Foundation continues to encourage compassionate leadership, environmental responsibility, and the shared belief that positive change begins when people come together in service to others.