Ruby Johnson, the 64-year-old homeowner, sat inside excitedly waiting for the students and volunteers to finish. She’s lived in the home since 1992 and can’t remember the last time her home received a fresh coat of paint.

The festival wound down around 3 p.m., to the crowd chanting “East side! East side!”

Having to do work online, apart from people, took its toll on Jyoti Parmar, which led her and Cassandra Tucci, a Gainesville activist, to create the Joy Walk Club.

After Hurricane Elsa in July, Alachua County Preserves faced flood damage including uprooted trees and debris on some trails.