To borrow from the old cliché, “the whole is truly greater than the sum of its parts” when it comes to the groups working to clean up Lawrence County.

With the first-ever countywide cleanup set for May 2, it is vitally important that individuals and groups from all of Lawrence County come together to make this event a success. And hopefully keep the momentum going beyond just a single day.

The Lawrence-Scioto Solid Waste Management District has already gotten commitments from 14 groups who have pledged their support and elbow grease to making the county shine.

From civic groups to school clubs to churches to government entities, a diverse group has already stepped up to make a commitment to this project.

Each of these groups should congratulate themselves for realizing the impact this effort could have on the whole county and those who visit the region.

But this is only the beginning. We challenge other groups, businesses and individuals to commit to this project so we can come together as one community that improves upon the quality of life in southern Ohio.

And, hopefully, it won’t stop with just one day. We would like to see the groups take ownership of the areas in which they work and make a commitment to keep that area clean all year long.

Lawrence County has made great strides in recent years with cleanup efforts and beautification projects. But so much more can be accomplished if we work together and make this “countywide” event truly live up to its name.