By Tatiana Baquero Cakici

Dreaming of an inspiring display of youthful enthusiasm for environmental conservation, seven-year-old Sara Cakici has taken the initiative to organize a neighborhood parade with a heartfelt mission. Sara, a resident of Lyon Park and a first-grade student at the Arlington Traditional School (ATS), has a desire to motivate her community to recycle and protect the Earth. Sara presented her idea at the October LPCA meeting, and this idea has captured the hearts of neighbors
and is already inspiring others to make a difference.

Sara’s inspiration came from her deep concern for the environment. Her idea is simple yet powerful: gather the community for a lively parade that celebrates recycling and emphasizes the importance of preserving the planet. She has spent days planning the event, designing colorful recycling-themed banners and writing eco-friendly messages. The event will consist of inviting kids and adults alike to design their own signs/banners with recyclable/recycled materials brought from home, followed by a parade, marching through the streets of Lyon Park with enthusiasm, holding their signs advocating for recycling, and sharing their commitment to sustainable living.

Sara hopes the impact will extend beyond the event itself, with many residents moved to become more conscious of their own recycling habits. Sara’s initiative is an example of how young voices can lead to significant change and inspire a community to come together for a common cause: protecting the Earth for future generations.

Save the date! Join us for this exciting recycling parade in proximity to Earth Day, on Saturday, April 20, 2024 at
10:30 a.m. at Lyon Park. You can start now by gathering a couple of recyclable materials from home to make
your own recycling-themed banners and bring your young eco-enthusiasts to participate in this eco-friendly event
that celebrates the importance of preserving the planet!.