There are times when local residents and organizations have projects that need to be done, but they either don’t have the money, manpower or skills to accomplish the tasks. Thankfully, those issues aren’t becoming permanent barriers because many community volunteers are providing assistance.
A good, recent example is the United Way of Bartholomew County’s second annual Day of Caring, a coordinated volunteer event. It was a huge success, outpacing the first year’s efforts substantially and providing a tremendous benefit to the community.
This year, about 1,000 volunteers donated their time and skills on 80 service projects, such as yard cleanups, building wheelchair ramps and painting rooms, for example. The volunteers largely came from companies, such as Toyota, Faurecia and Cummins, but also included groups of retirees and other individuals. Their 4,000 combined hours of help were worth about $92,000 in work.
This was a great turnout for the second-year event. Last year’s Day of Caring drew 500 volunteers, who donated about 2,500 hours worth about $35,000 on 60 projects.
What’s apparent is that people find the Day of Caring event a great way to benefit the community and its residents, and are willing to help in droves. The assistance provided is crucial, and the amount of helping hands greatly welcome.
Day of Caring organizers and the many volunteers deserve thanks for making a difference.
The United Way did an impressive job recruiting so many volunteers and connecting them with individuals and agencies in need.
Those who pitched in are making the lives of some local residents better, either directly at their homes or indirectly by helping the agencies and organizations that serve them. That is appreciated.
