HURON — Three different improvement programs are all slated to take place over a few days the first week in August, with an opportunity to make Huron a better and tidier place.

In 2023, the United Way Heartland Region’s annual Day of Caring is set to take place Tuesday, Aug. 8. In the past, teams of volunteers have painted structures, cleaned up areas around town and on the S.D. State Fairgrounds and so on.

There is still time for people to sign up their smaller projects for this year’s Day of Caring, by contacting www.liveunitedhuronsd.com. Volunteers are also still be accepted at www.helplinecenter.org and searching Huron Day of Caring.  

This year as well, the City of Huron is lending a hand by hosting its annual Summer Cleanup at the same time as Day of Caring. This year’s Summer Cleanup is set from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, Aug. 8-10.  

For residents who need assistance in hauling items to the rubble site, contact the City of Huron’s Inspection and Nuisance Department, at 605-353-8512 by August 4th.  Items will be picked up by volunteers on Day of Caring, August 8th .  

August 8-10th, city residents may use their August water bill to have unlimited access to the solid waste site on the east side of town. Free to haul to the site Aug. 8-10 are: rubble and metal items, including furniture, carpet, doors, lumber (not green-treated), hoses, sheet rock, concrete, brick, water heaters, washers, dryers, stoves and other appliances.

While those items are able to be hauled in free of charge, regular costs will apply for other remaining items, including tires, garbage, electronics (TVs, vacuums, microwaves) and freon evacuation from appliances.

Any questions regarding fees for items should be directed to the Huron Solid Waste Department (605-353-8542).

The third program is called Keep Huron Beautiful, and is a joint venture between the Huron Chamber and Visitors Bureau, the Greater Huron Development Corporation and the City of Huron.

“‘Keep Huron Beautiful’ is an idea to act proactively to help keep Huron a beautiful place,” said Laurie Shelton, the president and CEO of the Chamber. “We want to encourage everyone to take steps ahead of time and all the time, not just during the Fair and big events.  We want every day to be a day of caring”

The program focuses on homes and business properties, including keeping lawns mowed, trees and bushes trimmed and weeds under control.   Property owners are also urged pick up garbage on their property as well as around town and to encourage others to do the same.

“Together, we can create a collective mindset that prioritizes the preservation and enhancement of our community’s beauty,” Shelton said.