Berea gathers leaves, goodwill through annual raking project

BEREA, Ohio – The morning temperature was brisk, but the selfless actions of approximately 100 volunteers warmed the hearts of low-income and disabled senior citizens across Berea on Nov. 9.

Berea Community Outreach held its annual leaf raking event, putting to work the Baldwin Wallace University lacrosse and tennis teams, dozens of caring residents, Berea-Midpark High School AVID and Key Club students, Renew Community Church volunteers and St. Mary Parish youth group members.

“Many times our seniors can’t get out to do the raking themselves, or maybe they don’t have family close by to help them out,” BCO Administrator of Social and Senior Services Natalie Guzzo explained. “Maybe they can’t afford to hire somebody to take care of their yardwork for them, so the city has a program where we help with grass, leaves and snow.

“They are so grateful for the help.”

She added the volunteer turnout was fantastic again this year.

“Year after year, we get kids from the high school, college, Boy Scouts and various churches who come out and are willing to rake leaves on a Saturday morning for a stranger,” Guzzo said. “It’s amazing.”

For Coach Brian Rector of the BW men’s tennis team, it’s all about giving back.

“We do what we can, like we did last year,” Rector said. “The guys tell me they really enjoy it.”

BW senior and tennis team captain Caleb Reed said the work becomes a bonding experience for the players, while also helping others.

“BW is about community,” Reed said. “It’s the biggest attraction for me. It’s just all about community.”

Accompanied by a dozen or so Renew Communities church members, Natalie Eberhardt said they often assist Guzzo and the city when the need arises.

“We help residents throughout the year, whether it’s with yardwork or someone moving who needs an extra hand,” Eberhardt said.

“I hope everyone sees the ability to come together as a community today and help one another.”

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