A Spring Tradition That Means More Each Year
Each spring, as the snow melts and the White Lake area begins to come back to life, something else returns with it. Trash Bash has quietly grown into more than just a cleanup effort. It has become a reflection of community pride, a shared reset after winter, and a reminder of what people can accomplish together.
What started in 2018 as an idea brought forward by Greg Hillebrand of The Lewis House Bed and Breakfast has steadily evolved into one of the area’s most anticipated annual events. Now in its eighth year, the growth has been both consistent and meaningful. According to White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau Executive Director Stephanie Ware, participation has ranged from 80 to 90 volunteers even in less-than-ideal weather, to more than 200 people on a perfect spring day.
Greg and Debi Hillebrand at Trash Bash 2025
That growth has not just been in numbers. It has also come through stronger organization and deeper community involvement. The introduction of volunteer team captains has helped streamline efforts across parks, trails, roadways, and waterways, making it easier for people to plug in and make an impact.
Why Trash Bash Keeps Growing in the White Lake Community
And people do show up. Year after year.
For many, Trash Bash has become a sign that spring has truly arrived. It is something families plan for, something friends do together, and something that brings out a wide range of ages and backgrounds. Parks and trails fill with volunteers, many of them kids, all contributing in ways that feel both simple and meaningful.
“It’s an event people genuinely look forward to, which might surprise some given it’s a cleanup,” Ware said. “It’s become a reflection of how strong White Lake pride is in our community.”
That pride shows itself not just in participation, but in the results. Volunteers routinely uncover everything from everyday litter to unexpected and often challenging items. In past years, crews have pulled tires, equipment, signage, and even large objects like barrels and boat mattresses from the lake and surrounding areas.
Memorable Moments That Capture the Spirit of Trash Bash
Last year, one moment in particular captured the spirit of the event. A group of volunteers worked together to retrieve a large barrel from the water. Three approached by kayak, while another swam out to assist. They returned successful, though not without sacrifice. One volunteer even lost a boot in the process while helping haul in a boat mattress.
It is that kind of determination and teamwork that defines Trash Bash.
The waterways themselves have become an increasing focus. With the help of WaterDog Outfitters, volunteers have the opportunity to use free kayak rentals to clean areas that are otherwise difficult to reach. While weather can sometimes limit participation, the shift to a later April date has helped make that option more accessible.
Kayak’s after Trash Bash, thanks to WaterDog for providing AND cleaning!
A Shared Impact You Can See and Feel
Beyond the cleanup itself, what keeps people coming back is the shared sense of purpose. As volunteers return with bags of collected debris and watch the central container fill, there is a visible reminder that individual efforts are building into something much larger.
“You can see your impact becoming part of a bigger community impact,” Ware said. “That’s what makes it meaningful.”
Connecting Local Pride to America’s 250th Anniversary
This year adds another layer of significance, as Trash Bash connects with the celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. The theme encourages participants to help keep the White Lake area clean for the next 250 years, with a simple and fun twist of wearing red, white, and blue while volunteering.
It is a way to tie local pride to a national milestone, reinforcing the idea that stewardship of the community is something that spans generations.
What Success Looks Like for Trash Bash
At its core, success for Trash Bash has never been defined by numbers alone. It is about showing up. It is about taking part in something bigger than yourself. It is about leaving the community a little better than you found it.
“Whether it’s one person or hundreds, every effort matters,” Ware said. “The fact that people have fun, feel part of something bigger, and come back smiling is what truly defines success.”
And by that measure, Trash Bash has never had an unsuccessful year.
Community Support Makes It Possible
Special thanks go out to ITC Holdings, Inc. for sponsoring the event, along with team captains from the White Lake Association, White Lake Area Climate Action Council, and The Lewis House Bed and Breakfast. The event is also made possible through the continued support of community partners including Knight Transfer, the City of Whitehall Department of Public Works, and Walmart, whose contributions help equip and sustain volunteers throughout the day.
How to Take Part in Trash Bash 2026
Trash Bash 2026 is set for Sunday, April 26 from 1:00 to 4:00 pm, with volunteers gathering at the Depot in Whitehall. The event is open to individuals, families, and groups of all ages, with no registration required. Participants are encouraged to come prepared with gloves, sunscreen, and a willingness to help, while supplies like trash bags and coordination will be provided. Those looking to go a step further can take advantage of free bike and kayak rentals through WaterDog Outfitters to help cover trails and waterways, with the understanding that water conditions may still be cold and require proper gear. In recognition of America’s 250th anniversary, volunteers are also invited to wear red, white, and blue as they help care for the White Lake area for generations to come.
Ready to join? Find full event details on the White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce website
Stay connected to what’s happening in our area by visiting CatchMark Community.
Powered by CatchMark Technologies — helping people, solving problems. Explore more on our website.
