United Way Day of Caring - Art Alley Clean Up

From sweeping up glass and picking up trash, to scraping off meter windows several volunteers made Thursday a "Day of Caring" in Art Alley;  part of United Way's Annual event. 

The efforts started out with a quick tour and brief history of the space by Art Education Engagement Coordinator Tyler Read. From humble origins of covering up gang graffiti to lasting memories of first time murals, the volunteers listened eagerly to Art Alley's story.

"When organizations offer to help with projects like this, it makes a huge impact. Not only does it give the Art Alley a face lift, but it gives us a chance to share some insight about this place so that more people understand it and the magic that is capable of," said Tyler Read. 

Joined by Art Alley Guild member Tyler "Siamese" Read and Naomi Even-Aberle the 20 volunteers literally swept up and down Art Alley; helping to transform the space. The atmosphere was warm, with temps of 90 plus degrees, but the volunteers were not deterred from their work. Within a few short hours Art Alley looked new, organized and ready for some new action. 

"The volunteers were real go-getters," remarked Naomi. "They didn't shy away from some of the messier spots and they clean up the whole time with a smile on their face. It is wonderful to see members of the community give back in such a big way. Especially in a community space like Art Alley". 

Until next time, the Rapid City Arts Council and the Art Alley Guild would like to send out a big THANK YOU to all the amazing volunteers that came out today all over town for the 2015 Day of Caring.