Keep Alachua County Beautiful (KACB) was recognized with the 2025 Clean Community Award last week at the Keep Florida Beautiful annual conference.

The Gainesville nonprofit received the award during the conference, held Nov. 5-7 in Coral Gables.

According to the press release, “The Keep Florida Beautiful Annual Conference brings together nonprofit leaders, government representatives, business partners, and elected officials from across the state to exchange ideas, celebrate achievements, and advance environmental stewardship.”

KACB Executive Director Carlos Gonzalez attended the state-level conference, which featured innovative projects happening across Florida, to share the programs taking place in Alachua County.

“It’s always inspiring to connect with affiliates from across the state who share our mission,” said Gonzalez in a press release. “We’re proud to showcase the incredible work happening in our community and to bring home new ideas that strengthen our local impact.”

Conference attendees were also involved in a hands-on cleanup event hosted by Keep Coral Gables Beautiful, collecting more than 350 pounds of litter in under an hour.

During the awards luncheon, KACB was selected for the Clean Community of the Year Award, standing out among more than 40 affiliates statewide. The honor highlights KACB’s ongoing partnerships with the city of Gainesville and Alachua County waste management departments.

“This recognition belongs to our entire community — our volunteers, staff, and local partners,” said Gonzalez in the release. “Together, we’ve made tremendous progress in protecting our environment and improving the quality of life for residents throughout Alachua County.”

Over the past year, KACB volunteers have removed nearly 20,000 pounds of litter from local roadways, parks and public spaces.