County Honored for its Comprehensive, Collaborative and Creative Approach to Litter Prevention
The New Jersey Clean Communities Council (NJCCC), which runs the state’s litter abatement program, has honored Ocean County’s Clean Communities Program with the 2025 “County Program Award.”
County representatives accepted the statewide award at the 20th annual Clean Communities Expo and Awards Celebration, held October 8, for the program’s comprehensive, collaborative and creative approach to litter prevention.
Photo Caption: Caption: (Left to Right) Christopher Palmieri, Salvatore DiChiara, Michael Ross, Evangelia Vasilakis, Margaret Deleon-Rivera, Tanara Hall and NJCCC Executive Director JoAnn Gemenden.
Ocean County Clean Communities hosted 53 cleanups in 2024, partnering with municipalities, nonprofits, schools and civic groups. It also provided cleanup kits and educational outreach materials at 19 cleanup sites, as well as provided support for the popular Barnegat Bay Blitz and AmeriCorps Watershed Ambassadors programs.
“This award is a reflection of the strength of a constantly evolving program built on teamwork, collaboration and shared purpose,” Ocean County Clean Communities Coordinator Tanara Hall said. “Our program is made up of many moving parts that work together to keep Ocean County and our Garden State clean and thriving.”
By combining correctional labor, volunteer cleanups, grants, education and infrastructure, the multi-faceted program tackles litter across roadways, parks and preserved lands in Ocean County, Hall said.
The program is investing in equipment to ensure access to difficult-to-reach areas that require clean-up and accepting donations of supplies, such as gloves and bags. It is all about reaching the far corners of Ocean County and tackling litter wherever it is required, Hall said.
“The Ocean County Clean Communities Program continually demonstrates an exceptional commitment to environmental stewardship, collaboration, and community engagement,” NJCCC Executive Director JoAnn Gemenden said. “Through strategic partnerships and hands-on service, the program makes a significant positive impact across the Ocean County community.”
TOMS RIVER– October 28, 2025