Scientology Volunteer Ministers Lead Grassroots Environmental Movement in Milan A Model for Civic Engagement Across Europe
The Volunteer Ministers of Scientology in Milan have launched an ongoing environmental initiative aimed at cleaning public spaces across the city’s nine Municipalities. Through weekly cleanups, educational programs, and collaboration with local authorities — including AMSA (Milan Environmental Services) — the group promotes civic responsibility, sustainability, and community engagement. Their efforts include collecting waste, restoring green areas, and raising awareness about environmental stewardship. Supported by global humanitarian frameworks and rooted in the principles of the Volunteer Minister Program founded by L. Ron Hubbard, the initiative reflects a broader mission of service and positive social change. The movement invites citizens to join in building a cleaner, safer, and more conscious urban environment.
Milan, Italy – May 21, 2025 – In a powerful display of civic responsibility and environmental stewardship, the Italian Scientology Volunteer Ministers of Milano have launched a sustained initiative to clean and revitalize public spaces across all nine Municipalities of Milan. Their efforts are not only transforming urban landscapes but also inspiring a growing movement of community-based environmental action across the city.
The volunteer group, composed of local residents and members of the Church of Scientology, has been actively engaged in cleaning neglected parks, litter-strewn streets, overgrown sidewalks, and under-maintained green areas. More than just picking up trash, they aim to foster a deeper sense of personal and collective responsibility toward the environment.
“Trash doesn’t disappear on its own, and neither does neglect get fixed without action,” said a member of the Volunteer Ministers. “Each individual effort contributes to a cleaner, safer, and more liveable city. Our aim is to lead by example and encourage responsible behavior toward our shared environment.”
Since beginning their efforts nearly three years ago, the group has gathered every Saturday morning in different parts of the city, equipped with gloves, bags, and determination. During recent clean-up events, volunteers collected approximately 80 large bags of waste in just a few hours — a tangible sign of progress in their ongoing mission.
These activities are carried out in coordination with local authorities, including AMSA (Azienda Milanese Servizi Ambientali) , which supports the logistical aspects of the clean-up operations. The collaboration ensures that the work remains effective and aligned with broader municipal sustainability goals.
More Than Cleanup: Education and Community Empowerment
Beyond physical clean-ups, the Church of Scientology in Milan hosts educational workshops, open events, and outreach programs aimed at schools, families, and institutions. These initiatives are designed to promote long-term behavioral change and foster a culture of environmental respect.
Through interactive presentations and hands-on learning experiences, participants gain practical tools for everyday life, rooted in ethical principles and problem-solving techniques derived from The Scientology Handbook . The program emphasizes self-improvement, communication, and community service — values that resonate far beyond any one religious or cultural boundary.
Free online courses based on these teachings are available globally, allowing individuals to study and apply them independently. The materials are accessible to people of all backgrounds and beliefs, making them a valuable resource for educators, youth leaders, and community organizers.
A Global Program with Local Impact
The Volunteer Minister Program was founded over fourty years ago by L. Ron Hubbard, the founder of Scientology. Originally developed as a humanitarian response to natural disasters and social crises, it has since evolved into a global network of trained volunteers who assist communities in need — whether through emergency relief, drug education, literacy support, or environmental protection.
Today, Volunteer Ministers operate in over 100 countries, responding to both human-made and natural disasters, offering aid where it is most needed. In Milan, on of their many focuses has shifted to addressing the slow-burning crisis of urban decay and environmental apathy — issues that affect cities across Europe and beyond.
Ivan Arjona-Pelado, Representative of the Church of Scientology to the European Institutions in Brussels and the United Nations in Geneva, commented:
“The actions taken by the Volunteer Ministers in Milan reflect a growing global awareness that sustainable change begins at the community level. As cities across Europe face increasing environmental challenges, grassroots movements like this one offer a model of cooperation, civic engagement, and real-world impact. The Volunteer Ministers are proof that when people come together with purpose and commitment, they can make a lasting difference — not only in their neighborhoods, but in shaping a better future for all.”
A Model for Urban Sustainability and Civic Participation
Milan, like many European cities, faces ongoing challenges related to waste management, illegal dumping, and the degradation of public spaces. While municipal services work hard to maintain cleanliness, citizen participation remains a critical factor in achieving lasting change.
The Volunteer Ministers’ weekly clean-up efforts serve as a model of how organized civic action can complement official environmental policies. By engaging directly with neighborhoods, raising awareness among residents, and encouraging others to join their cause, they are helping to build a more environmentally conscious and socially active community by setting the example.
The strength of this initiative lies in its simplicity, said a representative of AMSA, the city’s environmental services agency. It’s about ordinary citizens stepping up and doing something extraordinary for their city. We’re proud to support their efforts and hope this becomes a replicable model for other cities in Italy and abroad.
Global Recognition and Humanitarian Impact
The Volunteer Minister Program has earned widespread recognition for its contributions to humanitarian causes around the world. The Volunteer Minister Program has earned recognition through its global outreach, with over 200,000 individuals trained across more than 100 countries. As reported in their website, their efforts span disaster relief, anti-drug campaigns, literacy programs, and community empowerment initiatives, the program has responded to countless emergencies — from earthquakes and hurricanes to refugee crises and addiction epidemics.
Scientology and its affiliated humanitarian initiatives have been honored with numerous civic and international awards, including praise from UNESCO affiliated organizations, the U.S. Congress, and several European municipalities. These recognitions underscore the universal value of the Volunteer Ministers’ work — not only as a spiritual service, but as a vital force for good in society.
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Organization: European Office Church of Scientology for Public Affairs and Human Rights
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