Southwood Ballfield Cleanup Gains Community Momentum Ahead of April 25 Work Day
Southwood Ballfield Cleanup Gains Community Momentum Ahead of April 25 Work Day
What started as a simple idea has quickly turned into something much bigger.
The upcoming Southwood Ballfield Clean Up, set for April 25, has drawn an outpouring of community support — from local businesses donating materials and services to individuals stepping up with time, effort, and resources.
Organizer Joseph Joyner didn’t set out for recognition. Instead, he was driven by something deeper.
“I’m just another parent with memories on these ball fields and now seeing my own out there, knew it was my turn to ‘pitch’ in,” Joyner said. “Let’s be more like Billy and do it for these kids.”
Joyner pointed to longtime field caretaker Billy Hooker as the inspiration behind the movement — someone who has spent decades maintaining the fields with one goal in mind: the kids.
In just a matter of weeks, the project has gained serious traction.
Donations have poured in to support:
Press box, bathroom, and bleacher painting
New bleacher planks
Dugout repairs
Roof and structural improvements
Rock placement for safety around the concession area
Pressure washing services
Vinyl work to protect buildings
Local businesses have stepped up in a big way, including:
Triple L Coatings Professional Painting Service
Down East Site Prep LLC
Howard’s Home Improvement
D&W Septic Tanks
Salon 408 & Co.
And several generous anonymous donors
Even more, volunteers have committed to helping on cleanup day, bringing tools, supplies, and energy to help transform the fields.
“I have been in awe seeing folks I hardly even know reach out asking how they can help,” Joyner said. “From monetary donations, job materials, to physical labor… just simple, good-hearted supporters of these kids and their playing grounds.”
And the work isn’t stopping here.
Larger projects — including fencing repairs and scoreboard improvements — are already on the radar, with hopes of forming a committee to help manage future needs and keep the momentum going.
For those wanting to get involved, the message is simple: show up, donate, or spread the word.
“This is just the beginning,” Joyner said. “The community has really showed up and I couldn’t be happier than to be a part of it.”
📍 Volunteers are encouraged to bring cleaning supplies, tools, and snacks for the April 25 cleanup. Parking will be available outside the fence in the normal lot.
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