Ginelle Testa has been halfway around the world, doing good.

But it occurred to her that there was much to be done right here, in her current corner of the Earth. So what better time than Earth Day to organize a clean-up effort in and around Nashua. She's targeting Sullivan Park, the Heritage Trail and Holman Stadium for starters.

With the blessing of Nashua Parks and Rec manager Tom Duane, who has offered all the gloves, bags and rakes Testa might need, the goal is to gather about 50 helpers for a couple hours of community yard work on Saturday, April 21 from noon to 2 p.m.

A self-described "super tree hugger," Testa grew up in Hudson and graduated from Alvirne High School in 2010. She's a sociology major with a social work minor at Rivier College, aiming to become a social worker one day, who are simply put, "professional helpers," Testa said.

"I have gone on three volunteer trips in the past year – Uganda, Africa, in June 2011; Appalachian Mountains, Kentucky, in Jan 2012; and Camden NJ (with the campus ministry) in March 2012," said Testa, who was inspired to organize an effort closer to home while picking up heroin needles and trash in a Camden park.

"I realized that we were college kids from New Hampshire, all the way down in New Jersey, raking parks. So, I figured, why can't we do this in Nashua? So
I set off to find some contacts and brainstorm," Testa said.

She's hoping for a great turnout on Saturday, a combination of fellow Rivier students and people from the community who'd like to get involved in cleaning up local parks and recreation sites, many of which are in need of some TLC.

If you would like to get in on this effort, contact Testa at gtesta@rivier.edu