Residents will have the opportunity to safely dispose of sensitive documents and unused medications at the Shred/Drug Take-Back Event scheduled for Saturday, April 25. The event will take place from 10 a.m. to noon in the parking lot at the corner of Forest Boulevard and Lakewood Boulevard, across from the Park Forest Police Station.
The initiative aims to provide a secure way for people in Park Forest and nearby communities—no residency required—to discard items that could otherwise present risks if not handled properly. Carrie Malfeo, Park Forest Sustainability Coordinator, said, “This event is about giving people a safe, secure, and convenient way to dispose of items that could otherwise pose a risk if not handled properly.”
Participants can bring up to two boxes or bags of paper per vehicle for on-site shredding. Only sensitive paper documents will be accepted; binder clips, plastic sleeves, and three-ring binders should be removed before arrival. Prescription medications can also be dropped off but liquids or sharps are not permitted.
Malfeo explained that improper disposal of documents may lead to identity theft while leftover medications can cause environmental harm or misuse. “We want to help residents protect their personal information and also keep potentially dangerous substances out of our waterways and communities,” Malfeo said. “Events like this make it easy to do the right thing.” Organizers have set up the service as drive-up only so participants may remain in their vehicles while staff collect materials directly from trunks.
“That convenience is key,” Malfeo said. “We know people are busy, so creating a simple, quick process encourages more participation and ultimately leads to a safer, cleaner community.” Village officials advise arriving early since capacity may be reached before noon.
According to the official website, Village of Park Forest promotes community health and engagement via dedicated commissions and programs according to the official website. The village has received accolades for its sustainability efforts in town planning according to the official website, operates under a council-manager government with a mayor and six trustees according to the official website, supports national climate protection agreements according to the official website, bolsters economic conditions through collaboration according to the official website, and provides educational opportunities on community issues through its Civic Leadership Academy according to the official website.
