2. • Toni Rufeh, professional recruiter and owner of
Rufeh Associates, a firm specializing in defense
industry recruitment, is a firm believer in giving
back to the community. A resident of
Armonk, New York, Toni Rufeh is involved in a
range of non-profit and charitable endeavors
and actively supports the North Castle
Beautification Foundation.
3. • Maintaining a clean and beautiful neighborhood
can be challenging, but it is a worthwhile and
rewarding activity. A little effort, good will, and
community involvement go a very long way in
keeping your local environs attractive. Here are
a few simple tips to beautify a neighborhood at
no cost to the residents.
4. • 1. Organize a cleanup.
A neighborhood cleanup is an effective way to
deal with the problem of garbage in public right-
of-way spaces. If you want, you can contact your
town's Public Works department for help
organizing the event at no added cost.
5. • 2. Obtain free trees.
Most towns have a department of Urban Forestry or
a City Forester that maintains street trees. If you
think your neighborhood could benefit from more
greenery in available right-of-way areas, check with
your City Forester. If the city determines there is
sufficient space in your neighborhood for a new
tree, they can plant one at no cost. Similarly, the City
Forester also maintains trees that are overdue for
pruning at no additional cost to property owners.
6. • 3. Paint public murals.
Some walls become frequent targets for illegal
graffiti and other forms of vandalism, which can
become a real eyesore. If you, or one of your
neighbors, have artistic abilities, think about
painting a mural on these walls. Murals are a
beautiful and effective way to reclaim property
and keep the neighborhood looking attractive.
Alternatively, you can partner with programs in
local high schools or college art classes.
