ABOUT
Make Austin Clean, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, was founded to mobilize people to show up, pick up, and clean Austin’s streets, creeks, and parks. We believe that if everyone cleaned the trash and litter from the street where they live and work, just once a week, Austin would be noticeably cleaner in no time. We know this can work, but the city of Austin and Make Austin Clean need your help. To achieve a clean, green Austin, it will take the support of Austin residents, businesses, other nonprofits and the City of Austin and its partners to make this a reality. You can start by helping keep your neighborhood clean and showing up for our weekly community cleanup events.
Cary Capece is the founder and managing director of Make Austin Clean, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving the beauty and livability of Austin’s creeks, streets, parks, and neighborhoods. Inspired by a deep love for the city and its natural spaces, Cary launched the organization with a simple yet powerful mission: to bring people together through community cleanups and service projects that drive lasting change.
After spending more than 40 years as a tech executive in Silicon Valley, Cary relocated to Austin’s Bouldin Creek neighborhood in September 2017. In early 2022, driven by a desire to give back to his new home, he founded Make Austin Clean. Under his leadership, what began as a grassroots idea quickly grew into a city-wide movement.
To date, the nonprofit has mobilized more than 614 volunteers, removed more than 84,000 pounds of trash from Austin’s creeks, parks, and streets, and helped instill a sense of pride and responsibility in neighborhoods across the city. Cary’s journey has not been without its challenges, but every obstacle has only deepened his commitment to the mission. He credits the energy, passion, and dedication of the volunteers as his greatest inspiration.
For Cary, the work isn’t just about cleaning up litter—it’s about strengthening community bonds and creating a more livable, connected Austin for generations to come. Looking ahead, he envisions Make Austin Clean expanding its reach, building strong partnerships, and continuing to serve as a catalyst for environmental awareness and collective action.
Cary’s legacy is one of perseverance, vision, and a belief that one person’s idea—when supported by many—can transform an entire city.
This journey wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support of the community. That support is deeply appreciated.
So: “Show Up Give a Shit™.” It’s your neighborhood.