The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority is recognizing Todd Sleeper as the 2019 UTRCA Community Conservation Award winner in celebration of World Water Day tomorrow.
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“It’s a great honour to get a pat on the back for doing something you like, it’s just icing on the cake,” says Sleeper.
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For 20 years, Sleeper has brought together thousands of people from the London area, Woodstock, Stratford, St. Mary’s – where is from- and up and down the Thames for a yearly clean up.
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“I really enjoy cleaning up our environment, cleaning up our river, and inspiring others. I really appreciate that award.”
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He adds that every year there is a challenge since more volunteers are needed. He also adds that the most memorable part of cleaning the Thames is the people who try their best to make this Canadian Heritage River a better place for the future generations.
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“I started seeing the river neglected. Garbage everywhere and not being picked up. It wasn’t safe to swim in the river anymore. Also, It wasn’t recommended to eat the fish, so then is when I thought we had to do something.”
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Sleeper says the goal for this year is to bring at least 2,000 people together to help clean up 200 kilometers along the Thames River.
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Citizens from the London area wanting to join this full-filling cause can find more information at www.thamesrivercleanup.ca
