Pathways to Peace launches free Rochester neighborhood cleanup and barbecue events across the city starting Aug. 13

Rochester, New York – Rochester residents will have several opportunities this month to roll up their sleeves, help clean local streets and spend time with neighbors as the city’s Pathways to Peace team launches a series of free Cleanup & Barbecue events.

The first gathering is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 13, at the intersection of Ave D and Conkey Ave. The event will begin with a neighborhood cleanup from 4 to 5 p.m. Afterward, residents can stay for a barbecue from 5 to 7 p.m., giving neighbors a chance to eat together and connect.

The events are being organized by the City of Rochester’s Pathways to Peace team in partnership with Walking for Rochester. Organizers say the gatherings are intended to combine hands-on neighborhood improvement with an opportunity for people to spend time together in a relaxed setting.

The cleanup and barbecue series will move to different parts of the city throughout August. The next event is planned for Thursday, Aug. 20, at W. Main and Henion St., where activities will run from 4 to 7 p.m.

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A week later, on Thursday, Aug. 27, residents can take part at Genesee and Orleans St. The event will again run from 4 to 7 p.m. The series will then conclude Friday, Aug. 28, at Don Samuel Torres Park, located at 70 Oakman St., with a barbecue scheduled from 5 to 7 p.m.

The final gathering will be slightly different from the others. Instead of a neighborhood cleanup, the Aug. 28 event will feature a friendly softball game, followed by time for residents to share a meal and socialize.

Mayor Malik D. Evans encouraged Rochester residents to participate, describing the gatherings as more than just cleanup efforts. He said they provide a chance for people to take pride in their neighborhoods while strengthening connections between residents.

“Pathways to Peace cleanups and barbecues are an opportunity for the community to come together, show pride in their city, and connect with one another over a good meal,” said Mayor Malik D. Evans. “I welcome community members across the city to join us in building a stronger, safer Rochester together.”

The events also reflect the broader work carried out by Pathways to Peace. The program operates within the City of Rochester’s Office of Violence Prevention and works directly in schools and neighborhoods.

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Its focus includes supporting youth and young adults, building relationships and connecting people with resources. The program also works to interrupt and prevent cycles of conflict and violence in the community.

By bringing those efforts into neighborhood settings, the Cleanup & Barbecue events offer a more informal way for residents to meet members of the Pathways to Peace team and one another. The combination of cleanup work, food and recreational activities is designed to create opportunities for positive interaction.

Residents interested in participating can attend any of the scheduled events. The first cleanup and barbecue will take place Aug. 13 at Ave D and Conkey Ave., with additional gatherings following throughout the month.

More information about Pathways to Peace is available through the City of Rochester’s website.