Recycling Programs
In Ashmore, recycling embodies principles of self-reliance, environmental stewardship, and community responsibility.
Despite logistical challenges, recycling is embraced as a way to conserve resources, protect natural landscapes, and preserve the rural way of life for future generations. It fosters a sense of pride in sustainability and demonstrates a commitment to caring for the land and its inhabitants.
Recycling in rural areas not only benefits the environment but also strengthens community ties through collective efforts to reduce waste and promote a cleaner, healthier environment for all.
Ashmore encourages recycling in our community by offering two free program options. Both programs are examples of collaborative teamwork between the Village and Township.
Annual Community Cleanup Day
The Village of Ashmore teams up with Ashmore Township and the Coles County Regional Planning and Development Commission to provide this Saturday morning event every fall. Keep an eye on the Community Calendar and Facebook for the next event date.
At Ashmore Village Park, residents in the 61912 zip code may bring items for the following stations:
- Electronics Recycling - If it plugs into an outlet or runs on a battery, leave it here; first come, first served until recycling trailer is full (in collaboration with COM2 Recycling)
- Tire Recycling - rubber tires of all sizes, including tractor tires (in collaboration with Earth Services)
- Pharmaceutical Disposal - no questions asked and medicines do not need to be labeled or sorted; simply collect all medicines in a bag or container and drop it in the opaque box (in collaboration with Coles County Sheriff's Office)
- Glass, Plastic, Aluminum, Paper, Cardboard Recycling - the Ashmore Recycling trailer will be on hand for convenience (see below)
- Roll Off Dumpster - for disposal (not recycling) of everyday garbage and rubbish, including furniture, beds, household items, toys, or basement/attic/garage cleanouts;
Items NOT allowed in the dumpster: cans of wet paint, tires, electronics & appliances, oil, chemicals, yard waste, aerosol cans, batteries, etc.
This event is for Ashmore Village and Township residents ONLY. Proof of residency is required.
Recycling Trailer
The Village of Ashmore has teamed up with Ashmore Township to provide this recycling trailer year-round for all Village and Township residents. The trailer was purchased with financial grant assistance through the Coles County Regional Planning & Development Commission. The trailer is emptied every few weeks as needed.
The trailer is located in the parking lot of the Ashmore Community Center at 211 S Illinois St.
The trailer collects the following materials: plastic, glass, paper & cardboard, and aluminum cans. The trailer is divided for the different materials, but it is okay to put any of the allowable materials in any of the compartments. If the aluminum section is full, for example, additional aluminum may be deposited in the glass or paper compartments.
The trailer is closely monitored by security cameras and neighbors, and abuse will not be tolerated. Do not leave any materials except what is explicitly allowed. Recycling is a benefit for 61912 residents ONLY.
Inspired BY Future Generations to Be Responsible FOR Future Generations
Ashmore administrators are proud to acknowledge that the free recycle trailer was the result of a letter from a resident. Not just any resident, but 9-year old (at the time) resident Venice Schwartz.
In July 2021, Miss Schwartz wrote a letter to the Village Mayor and Board of Trustees with the support of her parents. Her letter politely pointed out that there was no recycling options for Ashmore residents and what a shame that was. She asked if there was anything the Village could do to change that and also offered some ideas.
The Village administration felt convicted by her simple and poignant letter, and took the request to heart. Over the next several months, the Village teamed up with the Township so that costs could be shared and more people could benefit. Superintendent Jake Johnson was instrumental in researching trailers, finding the right and responsible purchase, and then painting and personalizing the trailer for our needs.
Within a year after receiving the letter, the Village was proud to unveil the new recycling trailer. To this day, the dedication to Miss Schwartz is posted proudly on the front of the trailer for all to see.
Venice, we thank you for reminding us who we serve and that we are responsible for taking care of our planet. You may not realize it, but at 9 years old, you were already taking a stand for your generation and affecting change. We hope that your simple, selfless act serves to remind other young people that you have a voice to stand up for what's good and right. We hope your letter inspires others to do the same, because it definitely inspired us.
9-yr-old Venice Schwartz at the July 2021 Board Meeting