Filipino American Organizations Lead the 2nd Annual Earth Day of Action in Woodside, Queens

Woodside, New York – A strong sense of community and environmental responsibility was on full display as various organizations united for the 2nd Annual Earth Day of Action, held in the heart of Woodside, Queens. Organized by the Office of Filipino American Assemblymember Steven Raga of District 30, the event brought together a diverse group of volunteers committed to protecting and enhancing the local environment.

District 30, known for its multicultural population and one of the largest concentrations of Filipino Americans in New York City, served as the perfect backdrop for this collaborative environmental initiative. The Earth Day of Action was designed as a grassroots movement to promote environmental awareness while encouraging community engagement through service.

This year’s event focused on revitalizing public spaces, cleaning high-traffic areas, and supporting sustainable urban agriculture. Volunteers gathered early in the morning at Rusty Wheelbarrow Farm, a key urban farm in Woodside, where they received their assignments before dispersing in organized teams throughout the neighborhood.

Filipino American organizations played a leading role in the event. Among those participating were the United Federation of Fil-Am Educators (UNIFFIED), Knights of Rizal New York Chapter, JCI Philippines-New York, Philippine Nurses Association of New York, Association of Fil-Am Teachers of America (AFTA), Rotary Club of New York, and the Cagayan de Oro-Misamis Oriental Association of New York. Their involvement highlighted the active civic engagement and environmental advocacy of the Filipino community in New York.

Throughout the day, teams worked together to clean streets, remove litter, and enhance green spaces. At Rusty Wheelbarrow Farm, volunteers assisted in preparing soil, tending to garden beds, and helping maintain the urban farm’s operations. The farm, a vital green space within the community, benefits directly from these efforts, which contribute to its continued role in promoting local sustainability and food security.

Building on the momentum of last year’s inaugural event, this year’s Earth Day of Action drew a larger crowd, with nearly one hundred volunteers from across Assembly District 30 and neighboring areas taking part. The growing participation reflects increasing community interest in environmental issues and a shared desire to take part in meaningful, hands-on solutions.

The event not only strengthened neighborhood ties but also reinforced the importance of environmental stewardship through collective action. It served as a reminder that improving the urban environment starts with local efforts and the collaboration of community-based organizations.

As the day came to a close, the results of the cleanup and beautification efforts were evident throughout the streets and public areas of Woodside. With renewed energy and a cleaner environment, participants left with a shared sense of accomplishment and a commitment to continue supporting initiatives that foster sustainability and civic pride.

Plans are already being discussed for next year’s Earth Day of Action, with hopes of expanding activities and engaging even more community members. The success of this year’s event demonstrated the power of partnership, service, and a community’s dedication to creating a greener, healthier future.