Students at LWHS are turning a forgotten corner of the neighborhood into something special. Thanks to a recent grant from the HHH Fund, the Ocean Avenue Pocket Park (OAPP) is transforming a neglected lot at Ocean and Geneva Avenues into a vibrant, sustainable green space—an effort led by LWHS students.

The idea began with Sachin D. '27, who envisioned reimagining this triangular lot, passed by residents every day and frequently full of litter. Now, students are creating a space that supports local habitats while also offering a small refuge for the surrounding community.

Led by LWHS Student Council’s Environmental Working Group, the OAPP is bringing students together for cleanups, planting days, and ongoing care. Environmental Co-Chairs Riya R. '27 and Sachin are working with the Ocean Avenue Association and other community partners. They hope to secure donations of native plants to make local birds and bees happy. They are also planning an accessible, low-maintenance design, and recruiting students to work in the garden during free periods or after school.

The project kicked off on MLK Day, when 25 students gathered with gloves and grabbers to clear the site, supported by Mr. Lau. The cleanup reflected our MLK Day theme of Beloved Community, extending care into the Ocean Avenue neighborhood.

Student leaders of the MLK Day clean up include Sachin, Riya, Naomi C. '27, Mira K. '27, and Lucy J. '27. Drawing on past experience with similar projects, they’re applying what they’ve learned to help this space take root. Sachin shared that the project is inspired by research showing how urban green spaces strengthen community connections and support mental health and well-being—benefits the students hope OAPP will bring to the neighborhood.

For many students, the impact is both personal and communal. “I really like picking up trash; I find it therapeutic,” shared Camila J. '28. Quetzalli A. '28 added, “Cleaning up the environment helps us put positivity into the neighborhood.”

Together, their efforts are turning an overlooked corner into a welcoming space that reflects student initiative, care, and commitment. Thank you Sachin, Riya, and all our student participants for making this happen!