MOUNT VERNON, NY (WCBS 880) - In a city that’s often noted for its crime and poverty, it’s hard to see the beauty of Mount Vernon, with trash and abandoned lots around the city.

WCBS 880′s Catherine Cioffi In Westchester County

But that could all change with Mission Mount Vernon.

“People care and there is a positive domino effect,” says Jim Killoran, executive director of Habitat for Humanity in Westchester County.

The city has teamed up with Habitat for Humanity to clean up neighborhoods and rehabilitate abandoned properties.

“People need to take it back and take back their own communities with their own sweat equity and a part of the positive domino effect that can happen will be unbelievable,” he tells WCBS 880 reporter Catherine Cioffi.

Killoran is encouraging anyone who wants to help to come on out to Mount Vernon. He says Mission Mount Vernon is all about being proud of where you live.

“There’s a lot great people here, great pride, great history, and we’re just honored to be proud of it,” he says.

For more information, visit http://habitatwc.org.