A Letter from our Executive Director

Unprecedented. As I look back on FY19-20 the first thing that comes to mind is the term “unprecedented.” In every way. The last decade has been a time of extraordinary growth for Keep Truckee Meadows Beautiful. We recently updated our mission statement to include “waste reduction” and “sustainability.” KTMB’s new mission statement reads:  

“Dedicated to creating a more sustainable and beautiful region through waste reduction, education and active community involvement.”  

This update was more than 30 years in the making and we are all proud of KTMB’s growing impact.

Then came March 13, 2020. Friday the 13th was the last “normal” day in the office for many of us during calendar year 2020. Now when we get together as staff, and with volunteers, we are wearing a mask, we have hand sanitizer at the ready, and no one gets a hug. Unprecedented.

With crisis comes opportunity, and at KTMB we know how to take advantage of an opportunity. Zoom meetings help cut down on carbon emissions, saves time and money; virtual teacher trainings allow educators from across the state to join; and shared challenges have opened the door for collaboration in unprecedented ways for the betterment of everyone.

As unprecedented as things are, some things remain the same. The impact of KTMB volunteers continues to impress. In April, the pandemic forced the cancellation of KTMB's annual Great Community Cleanup. However, 200+ volunteers worked hard over several weekends in June and July. Wearing face masks and keeping at least 6 feet from each other, 25% of our usual number of volunteers removed 73% as much green waste and 63% as much trash as the 2019 Great Community Cleanup. KTMB has The Best volunteers and they prove it time and time again.

With WCHD funding we launched a new mobile-friendly website that expands KTMB’s Recycling Guide to help local residents and businesses properly dispose of unwanted items and also access tips for living more sustainable living. 

KTMB became a member of the newly formed Nevada Green Business Network. As a member KTMB will manage the GreenBiz Tracker for the Reno-Sparks metropolitan area. This state-wide database offers certification and recognition to businesses that have sustainable practices. Once certified, green businesses are listed in an online searchable directory that the public can find and patronize! Watch for more in 2021.

KTMB's Warriors Youth Education program continues to offer free quality environmental education available all students in the Truckee Meadows. When the COVID pandemic forced the closure of schools, KTMB’s education program pivoted to provide virtual classroom and at home resources to inform and empower residents about waste, noxious weeds, and the local watershed.

Thank you KTMB volunteer, sponsor, and individual donor for your help and support during these unprecedented times. Working together we will achieve KTMB’s vision to become America’s cleanest community!

Sincerely,

Christi Cakiroglu
KTMB Executive Director