On July 18, 2026, the Hollywood Neighborhood Cleanup team, affiliated with 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 positive community action based on L. Ron Hubbard's book, The Way to Happiness. Volunteers informed residents, business owners, and tourists about their purpose, receiving enthusiastic responses.
The 12-member volunteer force began cleaning along Franklin Avenue heading west, then moved south to Hollywood Boulevard. After cleaning, they switched to distributing The Way to Happiness booklets. A man selling tourist bus rides on Hollywood Boulevard recognized the booklet, stating, "I know this book! I read this when I was in prison. Whenever I would read this book, it would just bring me calm." He expressed appreciation for its calming effect.
At a coffee shop, a staff member eagerly accepted the booklet, began reading it, and requested a stack to place on the counter for customers. Near a historic church building, an SUV driver rolled down the window and told the volunteers, "Did anybody tell you yet today that you guys are awesome?" The group gave the occupants booklets. A local resident who stopped to receive a booklet expressed interest and agreed the area needed cleaning. Mike, a security guard on Hollywood Boulevard, took two booklets, while Glen from the Hollywood Partnership commended the volunteers and received booklets to "pay it forward."
Nick Kurtz, the cleanup coordinator, distributed bundles of a dozen booklets, approaching people by asking, "Hey, do you like to help people?" He explained the booklet's message about helping parents, loving children, and being a good citizen. A family from Riverside accepted booklets to spread the word, and a woman initially suspicious of Kurtz later took a bundle happily.
For over eight years, the Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre International has donated The Way to Happiness booklets for local cleanups. The booklet, authored by L. Ron Hubbard, founder of the Scientology religion, states, "Happiness lies in engaging in worthwhile activities." More information is available at https://www.scientology.cc.
