Love Where You Live Litter Poster Contest Winners Announced
The City of Sumter is proud to recognize local students, volunteers, and community groups who are helping keep our city clean through creativity, service, and a shared love for where we live. Honorees were formally recognized at the January 20, 2026, Sumter City Council meeting.
The Love Where You Live Litter Poster Contest invited students across Sumter to design posters that encourage participation in Community Clean-Up Days and promote pride in keeping Sumter beautiful. This year’s entries showcased powerful messages, thoughtful artwork, and a clear commitment to environmental responsibility.
The 2025 Love Where You Live Litter Poster Contest winners are:
- Barkley Helms, 3rd grade, Manchester Elementary School
- Winnie Caughman, 7th grade, Wilson Hall
- Sarah Sloan Motley, 9th grade, Wilson Hall
Each winning poster reflected the importance of community pride and inspired others to take action against litter. These students are helping lead the way in showing that even small actions can make a big difference.
In addition to celebrating student creativity, the City also recognized several groups and individuals who have gone above and beyond in their commitment to keeping Sumter clean. Their dedication and hard work have made a measurable impact across neighborhoods and public spaces.
Volunteer Cleanup Award
- Liberty Steam Charter School
With an impressive 223 participants taking part in Community Clean-Up Days, Liberty Steam Charter School demonstrated outstanding community involvement and teamwork.
Most Litter Picked Up
- Scout Troop 342, Shaw AFB
The troop collected 30 bags and more than 1,000 pounds of trash, making a significant contribution to citywide cleanup efforts.
Above & Beyond Award
- Billy Sams
Through consistent, self-driven efforts, Billy has collected 42 bags and more than 1,050 pounds of litter in his neighborhood and throughout the community.
These students, volunteers, and organizations embody the spirit of Love Where You Live and remind us that a cleaner Sumter starts with community involvement. The City thanks all participants who continue to step up, lend a hand, and help make Sumter a place we are proud to call home.