Granite United Way will hold its annual day-long service event, Day of Caring, on Sept. 14. In Merrimack County, this will be the 20th annual Day of Caring. Granite United Way works with community members and the corporate community to support the work of many non-profit agencies throughout the state. On this day, participating non-profit organizations are matched with volunteers from local business and community groups. This day also typically serves as the “kickoff” to the annual United Way workplace campaign.
In honor of the 20-year milestone, the organization would like to increase the number of participants and projects involved this year. If you represent a local agency and have not participated in the past, by either hosting volunteers or allowing staff to volunteer on this important community day, please consider doing so. If you manage employees with a local business or organization and have not participated in the past, please consider allowing your staff to volunteer some of their time. Last year in Merrimack County, Granite United Way was able to mobilize more than 400 volunteers to complete approximately 60 projects with 40 participating local non-profits. The organization would like to recruit 500 volunteers this year in honor of the anniversary.
Participation in the Day of Caring provides an opportunity for building relationships among company employees while introducing them to United Way's impact and importance in the community. The volunteers get to see first-hand how funds donated to the United Way as part of the annual workplace campaign are utilized. Day of Caring is a great way to promote the spirit and value of volunteerism, increase awareness of local human service programming and demonstrate what people working together for the common good can accomplish. This day is a perfect example of how we can all live united.
Non-profit organizations that are in need of a helping hand will be asked to register their projects when registration opens. Project ideas include painting, washing windows, fence repair, landscaping/yard clean-up, general repairs and much more. There are many volunteer options available.
Volunteers are still needed to complete requested projects. Teams can range in size from one to 10. Each team member will receive a United Way T-shirt. You may contact Val Guy at Granite United Way at 224-2595 or email her at val.guy@graniteuw.org to request additional information. Shifts are available 9 a.m.-noon; 1 p.m.-4 p.m.; or all day, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Day of Caring will take place rain or shine, as most projects can still be completed regardless of weather conditions.
