North Lenoir’s Frely Fuentes, left, and Evan Yarborough clear out weeds Thursday during the school’s campus cleanup event. Photo by Junious Smith III / Neuse News

By Junious Smith III

LA GRANGE — A strong portion of North Lenoir’s student body is taking initiative toward working on the school’s outward appearance.

The North Lenoir Cleanup Club spent time on campus Thursday performing tasks such as pulling up weeds and painting in preparation of the upcoming school year. More than 60 students and staff took part in the event, including Evan Yarborough, who said he wanted to make his school look better.

“I felt like it was best to help out a place I truly care about,” he said.

Frely Fuentes shared similar sentiments.

“It’s a great way to pick up community service hours, but it’s also good to take the time and help make the school a better place,” Fuentes said.

The North Lenoir Cleanup Club was started last year by junior Kennedy Sullivan, who said she felt inclined to create the organization.

“I felt like we had to make a change,” Sullivan said. “There wasn’t a whole lot of enthusiasm when it came to the beginning of school, so I was hoping I could round up some kids to help with this so there’s a better attitude to start the year. It was great having so many people participate and clean up throughout the day.”

A good portion of the participants came from the volleyball, football and cross-country teams, but Bonnie Sullivan — Kennedy’s mother — said it wasn’t just focused on the assistance of the athletic programs.

“We had a great turnout and it was very productive with so many students coming to help,” Sullivan said. “A lot of the freshmen really came in to make an impact, and a lot of the students didn’t play sports — they just wanted to do their part.”