The 13th Annual United Way Day of Caring 2018 is Our Largest Ever
70 Volunteers from Businesses, Schools and Volunteer Groups Tackle 73 Projects Today!
United We Serve is the 2018 theme for the United Way of Central West Virginia’s 13th Annual Day of Caring. Over 1000 volunteers gathered this morning at Power Park starting at 8:30am to hear inspirational messages from United Way President Margaret O’Neal and Retired Major General Allen E. Tackett before leaving to begin rehabilitation and service projects in Kanawha, Boone and Clay counties. The Winfield High School General Admission Show Choir and the George Washington JROTC Color Guard performed as volunteers were treated to biscuits, coffee and snacks generously provided in part by Tudor’s Biscuit World and Kroger.
“Day of Caring is our single largest event each year. Nothing epitomizes the mission of United Way like the spirit of volunteerism shown today,” said Margaret O’Neal, President and Chief Professional Officer. “The volunteer hours and the supplies provided equates to thousands of dollars donated back to support our local non-profits.”
In addition, an AmeriCorps VISTA service project to collect snacks and toiletries to ship to active duty service personnel overseas staged its final collection. AmeriCorps VISTA Director Reba Crossen commented, “We’ve been excited for the opportunity to build these care packages for our men and women overseas from the start. The idea of a soldier receiving something they desperately need fueled our ambition for this project. People’s generosity has not only moved us, but made this experience fulfilling to say the least.”
Year over year, United Way Day of Caring has proven to be the largest one-day volunteer event in central West Virginia. The event promotes the spirit of volunteerism, demonstrates the power of United Way’s mission, generates positive community relationships, and helps to develop contacts between volunteers, agencies and workplaces. Ultimately, this gives so many an opportunity to roll up our sleeves and work together to make a difference. United Way wants to recognize our Platinum Sponsor DOW, Gold Sponsor Unicare, plus Alltice Suddenlink and Sprint for their continued support. In-kind donations provided by West Virginia Power, Chapman Printing, AEP, Kroger, Tudor’s Biscuit World, and Commercial Printing Services by John Sibold.
