Graffiti Clean-Up In Chicago Heights: Group Hopes To Start Trend

CHICAGO HEIGHTS, IL — A small group of residents who grew up in "The Hill" neighborhood in Chicago Heights are doing their part in helping the city's image. The group led by Ramon Ayala and a friend who did not want to be named have visited various sites in the city and have cleaned up several graffiti marks.

"We're taking baby steps, but trying to slowly move forward on this," said Ayala. "We try to do what we can and hopefully others will start doing it and it could start a trend."

The two men and a few others have bought paint on their own and have covered up graffiti that is mainly seen on abandoned buildings and garages in town. They have met on several weekends so far and have already made a noticeable difference.

So far, both Sherwin Williams and Behr have indicated possible plans to donate paint to help the effort, Ayala said.

Ayala says he hopes the effort will grow from just The Hill area and become citywide. Anyone interested in helping out on future clean-up trips is encouraged to reach out.

"I would like nothing more than to provide some sort of positive image and help change the stereotype of Chicago Heights."