About Us
Our Story
The High 5 Initiative is a local 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization dedicated to the preservation of our natural environment. We believe we are all a part of our environment and should have a path to do our part. We work closesly with community members, local businesses, local governments and other nonprofit organizations to have an even greater environmental impact.
So far our cleanup initiative has removed about 47,000 POUNDS of debris from rivers and riparian areas leading to the Chesapeake Bay with the help of hundreds of volunteers. We attend community functions and volunteer on the planning committees of some of the largest events in Cecil County. We have taught free art workshops and volunteered on community art projects. We worked with businesses on a pilot recycling program that kept 550,000 plastic containers out of local landfills. That program lead to us to being advisors and advocates for the EPR law that passed in Maryland. Additionally, we do monthly water testing at Rock Run Park and adopted Rock Run Road. In each of these avenues, we work to educate, create awareness and action for others to join in our mission.
Our Mission
The High 5 Initiative, Inc. is a locally based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to practicing, promoting, and enabling the conservation of nature.
On the Fourth of July we will be assisting the amazing Salute to Cecil County Veterans group with the post-fireworks cleanup.
An amazing fireworks show is set off the night prior on the North East River while the community watches from the North East Community Park.
Join us at the 8th Annual Unicorn Quest on Saturday, August 23, 2025 from 10am–3pm (Rain Date: August 24th) on Main Street in North East, MD.
This FREE event has tons of fun for ALL AGES and lovers of all things magical.
We will be there dressed as pirates so come grab a tattoo and picture!
We are currently seeking sponsors for the 2025 Cleanup Season! We have multiple tiers available to fit your needs. Reach out to Phil@TheHigh5Initiative.com for more details on how you can help our waterways!
The High 5 Initiative is seeking kayaks in good working condition for community members to use for our cleanup initiative and kayak club!
Whether you’re getting a new kayak or just want to clear some space in your garage, donating your kayak is a fantastic way to make a positive impact.
We are also looking for a kayak trailer, life jackets and paddles.
We can arrange pickup in Cecil County. All donations are tax deductible.
SAVE THE DATES!
We are looking forward to seeing everyone soon!
You can find more information about each cleanup here!
We Made the News!
Check out these local stories about our organization!
Cecil Whig - Bainbridge Elementary Students Beautify Marina Park
Cecil Whig - The High 5 Initiative Seeking Kayaks
Cecil TV - The High 5 Initiaitve Releases the 2025 Cleanup Schedule
Chesapeake Bay Magazine – Volunteers Get Rare Glimpse of Endangered Turtles Hatching
Cecil Whig – Rainy Beach Clean Up Sweetened by Turtle Hatching
Southern Maryland News – Report Lists Possible Solution to Increasing Threats to Chesapeake Bay
The Shippensburg News-Chronicle / Stream of Consiousness – Kayaking Our Way to Clean Streams
Alliance for the Bay – Kayaking Our Way to Clean Streams
Cecil Whig – Bay Venture Outfitters and High 5 Initiative Partner for Cleanup
Cecil Whig – World Turtle Day in Port Deposit
Chesapeake Bay Magazine – Cleanup by Kayak on North East River
Cecil Whig - High 5 Initiative to Clean Up North East Town Park Saturday
Cecil Whig - Clean up and Green Up is the theme for Saturday
Cecil Whig – High 5 Initiative leads Earth Day Kayak Cleanup in North East
WMDT – Environmental Organizations Hosting Cambridge Creek Kayak Cleanup
Consider Giving 5 to the High 5
We love to have you join us, but if you can't participate, donate! Every dollar counts!
We also have Sponsorship Packages available for the High 5 Cleanup Initiative's 2024 Season. Sign up now to be on our website, posters, as well as options to be on our brochure and even gloves! If you or your business are interested, please reach out to our Executive Director, Phil Ash.
