On Sunday, September 29, 2024, ASEZ volunteers from Columbia University partnered with the Broadway Mall Association for a community revitalization project near Columbia’s Medical Center. Despite the rainy weather, volunteers and local community leaders came together to help cleanup the area. Their efforts cleaned up the space and they also planted around 250 bulbs, brightening the landscape.
The Broadway Mall is an important part of the community, connecting neighborhoods and offering a green space for both locals and visitors. The Broadway Mall Association’s restoration efforts focus on improving the area’s appearance and making it a more inviting place for everyone. This volunteer project directly supported those goals, helping to maintain and beautify the space, ensuring it continues to serve as a welcoming spot for all who pass through.
Transforming Broadway Mall
The day started with a detailed walk-through led by Ian Olsen, Director of Horticulture at the Broadway Mall Association, outlining the tasks ahead. Olsen guided the group on how to plant bulbs properly and what to look for while cleaning. As they worked, smiled and thanked the volunteers for their dedication to beautifying the neighborhood, even in less-than-ideal weather conditions.
The event also had much support from local leaders, such as Senator Cordell Cleare and Congressman Adriano Espaillat, who issued proclamations in recognition of ASEZ. Maximo Diaz, a community liaison representative from Congressman Espaillat’s office, said, “Our community needs organizations like ASEZ. Even just a few minutes of cleaning together brings me so much joy inside.” Sean Scully, Executive Director of the Broadway Mall Association emphasized, “Organizations like ASEZ bring people together with the right tools, at the right time, in the right place to get things done…That’s what we need—to care for these public spaces and unite communities.”
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