There is something special about giving back to the place where you live. Few events show that better than the annual Refresh the Rims cleanup. On Saturday, October 4th, the students and teachers of HOSA and Environmental Club gathered at the top of the Rimrock Cliffs for a day full of teamwork, fresh air, and to help clean up our local environment.
The event started early in the morning at 9:30 AM. Volunteers met on top of the Rims with gloves, trash bags, and free T-shirts. This event was organized by the Billings Parks and Recreation Department who had worked with BCCHS to get more student volunteers. The goal was simple: clean up trash, refresh the rims, and leave the Rims better than when they found them.
“It’s crazy how much garbage people leave behind,” said freshman Emmet Gilfeather, who attended Refresh the Rims for the first time. “But it feels good knowing that we’re doing something about it.” Students from Billings Central made up a significant portion of the volunteer group, and their energy and spirit were high. Some played music from their phones while they worked, and others talked amongst themselves.
Each section of the Rims was divided among groups, so no area would be missed. Some students took on the cliff itself, while others focused on the walking paths and parking lots. Teachers and helpers guided students and made sure safety was a priority.
Freshman, Aiden Bergum, shared, “I didn’t think I’d have fun waking up early to pick up trash, but it was actually fun and a good way to get community service hours. It was just a good vibe.” By 11:30 AM, the area looked completely different. Trash bags were filled, the trails were cleaner, and everyone could feel an atmosphere of cleanliness. To celebrate, volunteers were given free T-shirts brought by the Billings Parks and Recreation Department.
Events like Refresh the Rims show how much students and community members care about our city. This event showed that with everyone working together, small actions can eventually lead to substantial changes. Overall, Refresh the Rims was a day full of purpose, teamwork, and community pride.
