At JCI Liverpool, we care deeply about bringing positive change and making a real difference to our local community. On Saturday 2nd August members of our Chamber, with support from Liverpool City Council and local volunteers, took part in the Great Ropewalks Litter Pick initiative to help clean up one of the most iconic areas of our city.

Everyone involved met on a cold, wet and grey morning at Arthouse Square, behind the FACT building. After a quick coffee and a short briefing the volunteers were issued with the necessary equipment and headed out as a group to begin the litter picking crusade.

Despite the rain, the feeling of being soaked did nothing to dampen the enthusiasm and determination within the party. Through team work, conversation and humour, everyone was able to come together as a unified team. The weather also helped to generate a sense of camaraderie, which kept going throughout. This was indeed needed, as there were occasions when litter had to be removed from some awkward places. Quite an unusual way of team bonding, but very effective, and importantly for a good cause. By 2pm the first Great Ropewalks Litter Pick had finished and everyone returned to Arthouse Square tired but elated, at what we had all achieved together.

This was such an enriching experience for me, because I was able to help make a difference and set a positive example, to the local community. I felt privileged, to not only have taken part in this initiative, but also to have worked with a great group of people, and make a small but valuable contribution to the city of Liverpool, that I care so deeply about. I had never taken part in such a community event before. As a member of JCI Liverpool, I wanted to take part in this initiative, to help make the Ropewalks that little bit better. The whole experience was not just rewarding for me in the sense of working with my fellow JCI members, but also to engage with the local community and other volunteers, who were kind enough to support us in our endeavours. The end result was not only worthwhile, but I also found it to be great fun, despite the rainy weather.

JCI Liverpool would like to thank Liverpool City Council, AMEY, the residents and traders of the Ropewalks for all their wonderful and kind support for this initiative. Also a special mention is needed for JCI Liverpool member and Chairman of the Ropewalks Residents Association, Peter Schriewersmann, who did a fantastic job organising the event and liaising with all the other parties.