Posted on Jun 17, 2025 | Blog,News
Second Grader, River Kaltakdjian, Receives $1,000 Grant to Spread Litter Awareness
River piling up bags of litter.
River Kaltakdjian, a soon-to-be third grader at Westdale Heights Academic Magnet in Baton Rouge, is already a leader against litter.
River is dedicated to spreading awareness about the harmful impacts of litter, and he is experienced in engaging his peers in community cleanups. One cleanup event he organized with Keep Tiger Town Beautiful and his school drew 100 volunteers of all ages and 25 bags of litter were collected.
The global organization, Changemakers, was impressed by River’s passion for cleaning up Baton Rouge. In 2024, he was one of 17 winners out of 450 applicants to receive recognition. To support his cleanup efforts, Changemakers awarded him a $1,000 grant.
Most recently, River has working on an educational coloring book for local libraries. He also hopes to do more school-wide cleanups this coming school year.
Jennifer Richardson of Keep Tiger Town Beautiful with River and his mom, Darbi.
Congratulations to River on his grant and continued efforts to Keep Louisiana Beautiful! We are so proud of your environmental stewardship, and we look forward to seeing what you accomplish in your community as a young leader against litter.
