On July 18th, 2026, the Hollywood Neighborhood Cleanup team, organized by the Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre International, conducted a cleanup and booklet distribution event across several blocks in Hollywood, California. The initiative aimed to demonstrate a positive community action based on L. Ron Hubbard's book, The Way to Happiness, and engaged with neighbors, business owners, and tourists.
A 12-member volunteer force began by cleaning along Franklin Ave heading west, then south to Hollywood Blvd. After cleaning, they switched to distributing The Way to Happiness booklets. The reception was overwhelmingly positive, with many recipients sharing personal stories. One man selling tourist bus rides on Hollywood Boulevard recognized the booklet, saying, "I know this book! I read this when I was in prison. Whenever I would read this book, it would just bring me calm. Sometimes you just gotta read, you know, and I remember this book. I liked it. Excellent."
At a coffee shop, a counter lady opened the booklet and began reading immediately, becoming so happy that she requested a stack of booklets to place on the counter. Near a historic church building, a couple driving by in an SUV rolled down their window and exclaimed, "Did anybody tell you yet today that you guys are awesome?" The volunteers thanked them and gave them booklets. Another man standing on a corner expressed interest and appreciation, noting that the area needed cleanup.
Mike, a security guard on Hollywood Blvd, took two booklets, and Glen from the Hollywood Partnership, which cleans the streets daily, thanked the volunteers. Glen asked if they had seen the movie "Pay It Forward" and loved the concept of passing along good work. The volunteers gave him two booklets—one addressed to him and another so he could "pay it forward."
Nick Kurtz, the cleanup in-charge, distributed bundles of a dozen booklets. He would ask, "Hey, do you like to help people?" and if they said yes, he explained that the booklet promotes being a good citizen and neighbor. Many recipients, including a family from Riverside and a skeptical girl at a crosswalk, took bundles happily.
For over 8 years, the Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre International has donated The Way to Happiness booklets for local cleanups. The booklet, written by L. Ron Hubbard, states, "Happiness lies in engaging in worthwhile activities" and "And that is my wish for you." More information is available at https://www.scientology.cc.
