Keep Texas Beautiful (KTB), a statewide nonprofit dedicated to environmental sustainability and community improvement, has recognized Keep L e v e l l a n d Beautiful as a Gold Star Affiliate— its highest honor for community affiliates.
Gold Star status is awarded to affiliates that demonstrate exceptional commitment to keeping their communities clean, green, and beautiful through education, volunteer engagement, and impactful programs.
“Keep Texas Beautiful affiliates are the heart of our mission, and we are proud to recognize those that go above and beyond," said Suzanne Kho, Executive Director of Keep Texas Beautiful. “Our Gold Star Affiliates lead by example— recruiting and managing volunteers, hosting cleanup and beautification projects, and inspiring positive change in their communities.”
In 2024, KTB affiliates engaged over 60,000 volunteers who contributed to collecting 1 million pounds of waste and recyclables from Texas roadways, trails, and waterways.
Keep Levelland Beautiful played a key role in this effort, implementing programs that reduce litter, promote recycling, and enhance the local environment.
Keep Levelland Beautiful organized two successful community cleanups, one in the spring and another in the fall. Nearly 200 dedicated volunteers participated, helping collect over four tons of trash across both events.
Throughout the year, Keep Levelland Beautiful also conducted several educational programs for Levelland ISD students. Among them was the Pull Together Tabs program, which saw 515 students collect a remarkable 207 pounds of pull tabs. In October, the Lights Out Program was launched in partnership with Xcel Energy, who generously donated $700 worth of mini flashlights to teach students the importance of energy conservation.
To further spread awareness, Keep Levelland Beautiful gave civic presentations to nine different organizations, using creative demonstrations like the popular “garbage pizza” to engage and educate audiences. Additionally, the railroad switch box at Alamo and Hwy 114 received a fresh new wrap to maintain its welcoming appearance.
“We extend our deepest thanks to all the incredible volunteers who make Keep Levelland Beautiful a success. Their commitment to keeping our community clean, safe, and beautiful is truly inspiring. This Gold Star recognition is dedicated to each and every one of them, and we thank them for their hard work and unwavering dedication!” says Keep Levelland Beautiful affiliate, Arra Delos Santos.
Affiliates earning Gold Star status must demonstrate strong organizational leadership and community engagement. They share their mission and goals, report on economic development and diversity initiatives, and participate in statewide recognition programs such as the Beautify Texas Awards and Governor’s Community Achievement Awards. Affiliates also provide a letter of support from their local community.
KTB will honor all 2025 Gold Star Affiliates during the Keep Texas Beautiful Conference in Austin on May 6.