To promote, to provide education and to recognize beautification and restoration projects throughout the state of Michigan |
In 1962, then-Governor John B. Swainson appointed a 17 member
anti-litter committee in the state. The name of this committee was
changed to Keep Michigan Beautiful, Inc. the following year.
In
1965, Lady Bird Johnson sponsored a White House Conference on
Beautification. Thirty people from Michigan attended this national
conference and upon their return, organized similar meetings throughout
the state.
At a meeting held in Lansing, Governor George W.
Romney declared KMB the official state organization to combat litter and
promote beautification. In the beginning, KMB functioned mainly in the
Detroit metropolitan area, but over the years an intensive
organizational program has attempted to carry its activities into every
county in Michigan.
Today, KMB tries to reach every area of the
state to carry out its goals. Among other things, it utilizes a
newsletter, speakers, the enthusiasm of its members and volunteers, its
annual award program and well publicized “Clean Up Days” to convey its
message.