Jonesboro, AR – JonesboroRightNow.com – A group of Jonesboro youth is making a tangible impact on the community, one trash bag at a time.
On Feb. 21, members of the nonprofit organization Teens with a Positive Purpose gathered on Rook Road to clear debris left behind by a recent car crash, and general litter roadside.
Founder James Millbrooks said the location was chosen because he travels past it daily.
“I see it every day going back and forth to work, crossing the track, and I’ve been [keeping] my eye on it, you know, just like so much trash down there,” he said
In total, the teens collected nine full bags of trash, consisting primarily of cups, aluminum, and car debris.
The recent cleanup served as an eye-opening experience for the members, who were surprised by the sheer volume of hidden trash. Millbrooks said he took the opportunity to educate them on the importance of maintaining their city simply because they are part of the community.
“A lot of times when you’re just passing by things you really don’t see as much, but when you get actually over in the area and start digging in and picking up, it’s a lot more than what the eye can see from afar off,” he said.
Millbrooks founded the organization in Forrest City in 2016 before bringing the mission to Jonesboro last year. The local chapter, now entering its second year, currently has about 12 active students.
Beyond community cleanups, the group focuses heavily on developing essential life skills. Millbrooks emphasized the need for practical training, noting that public speaking is becoming rare among teens in the community.
“They need to learn to dress, they need to learn how to conduct themselves in an interview,” he explained. “They need to learn just how to be a better young person, and that’s what the organization is about.”
When people drive by and see the youth working, Millbrooks hopes it sends a clear message about the future.
“We’re trying to bridge that gap with our older people of the community to see that in five or 10 years, these are the ones that’s going to be running our community,” he said. “These are the ones that we’re passing the mantle down to continue whatever we’re doing in our community, our businesses, our schools, our churches, so we have to come together as a village and teach them.”
Teens with a Positive Purpose have a busy 2026 ahead of them. To fund an upcoming spring break leadership retreat in Nashville, TN, the group is aiming to raise $2,500. The teens are currently selling chocolate bars and will host a fundraiser on March 12 at the Pizza Inn at 1208 South Caraway Road.
Beyond that, the organization is planning a large community event for late June. Designed to bring the youth and old together, the summer event will feature vendors, performances, and workshops focused on spreading awareness about teen violence, drug and alcohol use, and other crucial issues.
Membership for Teens with a Positive Purpose is entirely free. Parents interested in getting their children involved or community members wishing to help with future opportunities can contact Millbrooks at (870) 680-7234.