By Tara Fischer

Staff Writer

(July 2, 2026) A Worcester Prep sophomore is offering a yard cleanup service this fall for Ocean Pines seniors who need a little extra help disposing of leaves, pine needles, and other autumnal debris.

At an Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors meeting Monday, Liam McAllister, an incoming 10th grader from Worcester Preparatory School, presented his plan to clean the yards of about 16 to 20 elderly or limited mobility Ocean Pines residents this autumn. He added that additional volunteers will include his classmates.

McAllister said he and the other high schoolers will “rake leaves, pine needles, and other fallen debris from senior residents’ yards who are unable to do it.”

The project will take place over three or four days in October and November. Each day, the volunteers will aim to clean five to seven yards, for a total of 16 to more than 20 yards. McAllister said that his goal of the effort is to give back to the neighborhood by targeting those who need it most.

The student maintained that he hopes to continue the initiative each year of his high school career.

“This will benefit the community greatly,” McAllister said.

Additionally, McAllister asked the board of directors at Monday night’s meeting whether he should prioritize certain OPA citizens and zero in on a specific age group and/or mobility demographic.

Board members, however, cautioned him against implementing strict criteria.

“Maybe we could put something out there that says this opportunity is available. I don’t think we could put criteria about age,” OPA Board Treasurer Monica Rakowski said. “But I commend you. I am super impressed.”

McAllister will advertise the service throughout the summer with flyers at the Ocean Pines Library and other community boards, social media, and word of mouth. He noted that he has already coordinated with OPA General Manager John Viola and his operations team on the processes and procedures for leaf disposal.

“That is awesome,” OPA Board President John Latham said at the conclusion of McAllister’s presentation.

Director Pat Lehnerd added that he understands how hard it is for some residents to maintain their yards and noted what a relief McAllister’s service will be for the citizens with limited abilities.

“I want to commend you,” Lehnerd said. “There are a number of seniors, one lives [a few] doors down from me, who would be an excellent candidate.”