Apartment association leads clean-up efforts

By Tonie Auer 

More than 75 volunteers associated with the Apartment Association of Greater Dallas (AAGD), a trade association representing the multifamily industry in Dallas and 10 surrounding counties, gave much of their morning and afternoon on October 13 to beautify segments of White Rock Lake as part of the organization’s annual community service project. “Each year, the AAGD Community Service Committee gives back to those in need in North Texas. With AAGD members’ generous support, we have donated large interior and exterior renovations to women’s shelters, homeless shelters, food pantries and children’s services,” said Paula Kelley, AAGD director of events.

This year, AAGD partnered with the City of Dallas Park and Recreation team members to clean and beautify White Rock Lake.

“This year, we wanted to give our time to help Dallas City Councilwoman Paula Blackmon’s district. Among the service efforts, we worked on weeding garden beds, picking up trash, pressure washing and painting handrails throughout the lake area,” said Kin Oldham, AAGD executive director. 

AAGD Community Service Chairwoman Traci Nau, director of business development for Liberty Rent, said the community service team determined that AAGD could provide hands-on services to help beautify the White Rock Lake area this year. “These efforts help preserve White Rock Lake’s natural beauty and recreational value by removing litter, managing invasive plant species and performing general maintenance tasks,” she said. “Benefits of cleanups like this range from improved park aesthetics to increased community pride, enhanced wildlife habitats and encouragement to enjoy the outdoor activities the lake’s parks offer Dallas residents.”

Nau said. “It is extremely rewarding to give our time to such a worthy project. White Rock Lake is an amazing part of Dallas.”