Zero waste from
the ground up.

Born from MAVE’s drive to build better, GROUNDWORK unites people around zero waste, advocacy, and the work of building cleaner, stronger communities.
OUR MISSION
Laying the foundation for change.
GROUNDWORK began inside MAVE, shaped by the same values we bring to creative and technical work: clarity, accessibility, and lasting impact. Today, we put those values to work in our neighborhoods — cutting waste, rethinking resources, and building a culture of sustainability that starts with community.
How we make zero waste more than an idea:

REDUCE WASTE

We show practical, everyday
ways to cut trash and keep
valuable resources in circulation
 — because change starts with
small, simple choices.

EDUCATE + ADVOCATE

From workshops to campaigns,
 we give people tools to spread
the word, rally their
 communities, and push for
policies that protect our future.

COMMUNITY CARE

At the heart of Groundwork is
connection. We bring people
 together to care for their city,
their neighbors, and the planet
we all share.

Programs

How we work.
GROUNDWORK transforms zero-waste
ideas into action people can see and join
from classrooms to clean-ups.

City Clean-up Days

Mobilizing neighbors to restore streets,
parks, and public spaces — because every cleaner block adds up to a stronger city.

Zero-Waste Education

Workshops and talks that give schools, families, and community groups the tools to rethink waste and build sustainable habits.

Advocacy Campaigns

Rallying voices to champion policies and practices that reduce waste and protect our shared future.

Seasonal Events

We bring zero waste into community celebrations — like collecting tree scraps from holiday vendors and turning them into wreath-making workshops.

IMPACT

Change you can measure.
Every action matters. What begins as one cleanup, one classroom visit, or one conversation adds up to measurable change. Groundwork believes in celebrating progress at every scale, because even small wins set the stage for bigger ones.

Our impact isn’t abstract — it shows up in cleaner streets, engaged neighbors, creative reuse of resources, and stronger connections between people and the places they live. These numbers reflect the work we’ve done together so far, and the foundation we’re laying for a more sustainable future.

city blocks cleaned
with neighborhood teams

community members engaged
in events

meetings with local leaders
on zero-waste advocacy

classrooms reached with
zero-waste education

wreaths crafted from
recycled tree scraps

Media

See us in action.
Proof beats promises. See how Groundwork shows up, cleans up, and rallies people to make zero waste real. The energy we have is contagious in the best way.
Groundwork made zero waste feel doable. Small swaps like reusable bags and composting have already cut my household trash in half.” — Jordan Kim, Workshop Participant
I came for the cleanup, but I stayed for the people. It feels good to be surrounded by neighbors who care about the same things I do.” — Maria Lopez, Local Volunteer
“Walking past a block we cleaned together makes me proud. You can see the difference — and know you were part of it.” — Sam O’Connor, Community Advocate
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Got questions?
We’ve got you covered.

Here’s what people usually want to know when they first get involved.

What does zero waste mean?

Zero waste is about designing our lives and systems so that materials stay in use and don’t end up in landfills or incinerators. That can look like composting food scraps, repairing items instead of tossing them, and making everyday swaps — like reusable bags and bottles. It’s progress, not perfection, and every step makes a difference.

Do I need experience to volunteer?

Not at all. Whether it’s your first cleanup or your hundredth, we’ll provide the tools, guidance, and support you need. Volunteers of all ages and backgrounds join our events — the only requirement is showing up ready to help.

How does GROUNDWORK connect to MAVE?

Not at all. Whether it’s your first cleanup or your hundredth, we’ll provide the tools, guidance, and support you need. Volunteers of all ages and backgrounds join our events — the only requirement is showing up ready to help.

Where does the waste collected actually go?

We make sure nothing just gets tossed into a landfill. Trash is sorted, recyclables are properly processed, and organic material is diverted into compost whenever possible. Our goal is to reduce the overall waste stream and show how thoughtful handling makes a big impact.

How can businesses or schools get involved?

Businesses and schools can partner with us by sponsoring cleanups, hosting workshops, donating supplies, or building zero-waste practices into their operations. These partnerships help us reach more people and make lasting changes in our city.

GET INVOLVED
Ready to roll up your sleeves?

GROUNDWORK thrives on community energy — and there’s a role for everyone. Whether you’re looking to volunteer at a cleanup, host a workshop, or bring zero-waste practices into your school or business, we’d love to have you on board.

Getting involved is simple: sign up below, follow us on social, or reach out with your own ideas. Every action adds to the momentum, and together we can build cleaner, stronger communities from the ground up.

Mission Media Programs FAQ Impact Get Involved