The Trash Dash!

The Neighborhood Design Center is heading back to Middle Branch Park to battle a major issue faced by so many of our public parks: trash!

The Trash Dash is an annual community cleanup competition and fundraiser. Teams of up to 10 will race to collect as much trash and debris as possible along the Patapsco River, turning a real problem in a beloved public space into collective, visible action. 

Together, we're aiming to raise $12,000 to fuel NDC’s Community Design Works program, which provides pro bono design services to neighborhoods working to improve their built environment. Every bag of trash collected (and every dollar raised) helps move community-led projects forward.

We’ll bring the gloves, tools, bags, light fare, and refreshments. You bring the energy (and maybe a little competitive spirit).

How to Get Involved

1. Captain a Team

Ready to lead the charge? Register yourself and recruit up to 10 others to compete alongside you. As Team Captain, you'll register your group through Eventbrite and set up a team fundraising page on Mightycause to help drive donations toward our $12,000 goal.

When you check out, be prepared to share each participant's email, dietary restrictions, and any access needs.

Still pulling your crew together? Register yourself now and share your registration link as people confirm. Just ask everyone to use your team name at checkout - we'll handle the rest.

2. Join Without a Team  

Don't have a group lined up? No problem. Register as an individual and we'll match you with a team of fellow community members, NDC staff, and board members at the start of the event.

3. Can't Make It? Support the Cause

You don't have to pick up a single bag to make a difference. Head to our Mightycause page to support a Trash Dash team or donate directly to our fundraiser. Every dollar drives NDC's work in Baltimore neighborhoods.

Questions? We'd love to hear from you! Reach our team at events@ndc-md.org.

—

Last year, 70+ people showed up to Middle Branch Park with gloves on and competitive spirits ready. Together, we collected 90 bags of trash - and raised $10,350 for NDC's community design work across Baltimore. See photos for what to expect here!