St. John’s Prep Classmates Step Up for Astoria Clean-Up, Tackling Litter Along 31st Street

From Left to Right: Matthew Rojas, Muhammad Kirmani, Nofer Attia, Projekt NYC Executive Director Ted Psahos, Joanna Apostolopoulos, Rodela Ahmed, Anna Celano. Photo: Projekt NYC

https://www.greeknewsusa.com/joanna-apostolopoulos-and-her-st-johns-prep-classmates-step-up-for-astoria-clean-up-tackling-litter-along-31st-street/

ASTORIA, NY — On Tuesday, May 13, 2025, students from St. John’s Preparatory School rolled up their sleeves for a 1.5-hour community clean-up along 31st Street and Ditmars Boulevard, addressing a persistent litter problem in the neighborhood. The effort was led by local nonprofit Projekt NYC, with supplies provided through a grant by the Sanitation Foundation.

The cleanup targeted a stretch of 31st Street that has been the subject of growing frustration among residents, particularly the area between 23rd Avenue and Ditmars Boulevard, where overflowing garbage cans, sidewalk debris, and heavy foot traffic near the elevated subway line have created an unsightly and unhygienic environment.

Armed with gloves, grabbers, and determination, students collected litter, swept sidewalks, and removed trash, bringing much-needed attention and care to a vital part of the community.

“The students demonstrated outstanding initiative and commitment by choosing to spend their afternoon improving their part of Astoria,” said Ted Psahos, Executive Director of Projekt NYC. “It takes maturity and a strong sense of purpose to step up and contribute outside the classroom, and they did so with enthusiasm. Their eagerness to participate is truly commendable, they are not only serving but leading.”

Projekt NYC organizer Emma Smith added, “It was really moving to see how many people stopped to thank the students. Passersby were genuinely grateful and impressed, they recognized the impact these teens were making. It meant a lot to the kids to be seen and appreciated.”

This event is part of Projekt NYC’s broader mission to empower middle and high school students through civic engagement, creative expression, and meaningful service. The organization plans to continue organizing clean-ups with high school students across New York City every spring and fall helping teens take pride in their communities and become stewards of their neighborhoods.

Interested in organizing a clean-up at your school? Projekt NYC welcomes partnerships with high schools across the city. Principals, guidance counselors, PTAs, or educators can reach out via email at info@projektnyc.org or visit www.projektnyc.org for more information.