The Mattie Legacy Project is rooted in the life and work of Mattie Bell Kinney, a community leader whose efforts focused on public health, civic engagement, and improving the well-being of her community.
Mattie, along with her husband Sherman Kinney Jr. and their eight children, lived in North Avondale at 409 Clinton Springs Avenue, where their home became part of a life deeply connected to service, leadership, and community impact.
Over the past year, the Mattie Legacy Project has focused on researching, preserving, and sharing her story. Now, that work is beginning to take shape through community action.
On Saturday, May 2, the Mattie Legacy Project will host its first public event — a volunteer-led Community Cleanup in the Avondale area. This event is one way of continuing Mattie’s legacy by bringing people together to care for the neighborhood and support the health of the community.
Volunteers will meet at Avondale Town Center in front of Saturday Morning Vibes Cereal Bar and help with light litter removal along the surrounding area. Gloves, trash bags, bottled water, and light snacks will be provided.
This cleanup is a small but meaningful step toward connecting past and present — honoring the work that has already been done while creating opportunities for continued impact.
Community members are welcome to join and be part of the effort.
Event Details:
Saturday, May 2, 2026
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Avondale Town Center – 3539 Reading Rd.
Volunteer sign-up: https://forms.gle/Fdq7EJvBwnfm3zs99
Laura Kinney-Porter
