One shared complaint of university life is taking out the trash. Sometimes the dumpsters are too far or too out of the way, and other times it is a hassle to carry such a large bag down three flights of stairs. Freshman Spencer Tate has introduced a simple solution for this common trash issue—his new business called Trash+Dash.

“It’s always been inconvenient and out of the way to takeout your trash,” Tate shared in an interview, “so I wanted to create a structured business that could be implemented for the whole school.” Tate mentioned how quickly trash can pile up in his dorm, so he figured he would create a program that can help alleviate this problem for everyone.

Trash+Dash is a small community business designed to help students take out their trash in a more efficient and timely fashion. For a small monthly fee, students can have their trash, recycling and compost picked up right from their dorm or apartment every Wednesday and Sunday from 8-9 pm. A participant’s only duty is to leave their trash, sealed, outside of the door, and the staff will take it to the proper disposal area at the designated time.

Trash+Dash currently has two employees in addition to Tate. But, as Trash+Dash builds its team, Tate will hire more individuals to make this operation work and he hopes to eventually have workers designated to each housing area of Furman.

Prices vary depending on the service, with the cost starting at $10 per month, and can increase depending on the person’s choice of service. With the money made through Trash+Dash, a significant amount of proceeds will go to Furman Community staff—particularly those who work in the Dining Hall. Staff included in the program will receive their share in the form of bonuses or, depending on the program’s success, something all the staff can enjoy together.

“I would love to see this money invested into a special gift for all the hard work the workers at Furman do, as a way to say thank you.” According to Tate, Trash+Dash will give 25% of all profits back to the Furman community at the end of the second semester. “Almost every single day the Dining Hall workers put a big smile on my face or make my day,” said Tate who wants to give back and start making a difference in their lives now.

Furman officially supports the business, and Trash+Dash is currently on its way for approval by the Heller Service Corps as an affiliated group. If accepted, Trash+Dash will become a campus-wide operation.

If you or someone you know is interested in signing up for the Trash+Dash program, text the number 443-994-7726 and provide the necessary information for trash pick-up.

If you are a student and interested in joining the team for a paid position, please reach out to Vtate@furman.edu.