McAllen SHINES, McAllen Recycling Launch “Green Wednesdays” with Free Family Workshops

Four sessions throughout July, teaching recycling and other topics

The City of McAllen invites families to join a fun and educational new initiative: McAllen Green Wednesdays, a free series of interactive environmental workshops hosted by McAllen SHINES and the McAllen Recycling Center. The events are set to take place every Wednesday in July at the McAllen Recycling Center, located at 4101 N. Bentsen Rd., from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Designed for children ages 6 to 99 years old, and their families, these workshops aim to teach sustainable habits through hands-on activities that inspire creativity, eco-awareness, and community pride. Attendance is limited to 30 participants per session, and RSVP is required. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Green Wednesdays schedule:

• July 9: Recycle Right McAllen – Create a wind chime using upcycled glass.
• July 16: From Trash to Garden – Learn about composting and create mini planters.
• July 23: Kindness Rocks – Spread positive messages with hand-painted rocks and discover the power of small acts of kindness.
• July 30: Eco-Hero Habits for Home – Build a zero-waste kit and explore simple eco-friendly practices.

“Environmental responsibility begins with education,” said McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos. “Green Wednesdays are a great way for families to come together, have fun, and learn the importance of recycling, sustainability, and community kindness. This is another example of The McAllen Way in action.”

“These workshops show how we can creatively engage our residents, especially our youth, in protecting and preserving our environment,” added City Manager Isaac J. Tawil.

“Thanks to the efforts of McAllen SHINES and the Recycling Center, we’re offering accessible tools and fun experiences that empower residents to make a real impact.”

To register or learn more about McAllen Green Wednesdays, call 956-681-4079.

Let’s make McAllen shine—one Wednesday at a time!