It often starts the same way.
A pair of gloves. A trash receptacle. A stretch of shoreline that’s seen better days.
When our volunteers show up, something shifts.
They bring more than time. They bring intention. A quiet kind of leadership that doesn’t need a spotlight — just a reason. And for them, protecting the Great Lakes has always been reason enough.
At the Alliance for the Great Lakes, we believe lasting change is built by people who care deeply — and act consistently. This Volunteer Appreciation Week, we’re honored to celebrate those who show us what that looks like.
Here are five reasons why our volunteers aren’t just helpful — they’re the heartbeat of this work.
1. They Show Up and Show Out
In 2024, volunteers held 925 cleanups across all five Great Lakes and in all eight Great Lakes states. That’s more than just a strong turnout — that’s a region-wide demonstration of care. Together, they collected 573,608 pieces of litter — 42,000 more than the year before — and removed 23,560 pounds of litter from our shorelines. Our volunteers never fail to rise to the moment.
2. They Build a Record and Create a Voice for the Lakes
Every piece of litter collected — all 10 million and counting since 2003 — is logged into a growing community science database. It’s now one of the most comprehensive sources of data about Great Lakes litter available, used by researchers, advocates, and lawmakers alike. In 2024 alone, volunteers contributed 28,312 hours and participated in 11,342 volunteer experiences — both up from the year before. That’s not just data — that’s dedication.
3. They Create a Ripple Effect Across Communities
From longtime volunteers to first-timers, we see the same energy: hopeful, steady, and committed.
As Annie P. from Illinois said:
“Lake Michigan changes every day except in its unwavering beauty. Thank you to every volunteer for all the work you do on behalf of all the Great Lakes.”
This work inspires. One cleanup can turn into a family tradition. One data point can shape policy. One act of care can reach across neighborhoods and generations.
4. They Help Turn Data into Action
The work our volunteers do has helped push forward policy change — like Illinois’ recent ban on single-use plastic toiletry bottles in hotels and growing efforts to reduce plastic waste.
And our volunteers reach out to their elected officials – at the state and federal level – by the thousands. They send messages in support of policies that protect the lakes from invasive species, plastic pollution, toxic algal blooms, and more.
Because of their data, their dedication, and their stories — lawmakers are listening. This is how grassroots action becomes real-world results. Our volunteers help carry that momentum forward.
5. Our Ambassadors Expand our Reach and Share our Message
Our Alliance Ambassadors spread love for the lakes and awareness of the lakes across the entire Great Lakes region. They build community and allow the Alliance to have a larger and deeper reach. By meeting with people in school groups, local civic organizations, faith groups and more, they show how we’re all connected by the water we share.
To every Alliance volunteer — thank you.
As Mary E. from Ontario wrote so thoughtfully:
“You keep this beloved area safe… a refuge and a home for people and creatures of all kinds.”
Your efforts reflect something bigger than a cleanup. They reflect a commitment to legacy — to passing on a cleaner, safer Great Lakes region to future generations.
Thank you for your time, your energy, and your steady presence.
You show us what it looks like to protect what we love. And because of you, the Great Lakes truly are in great hands.
