For the fifth consecutive year, United Way of Richmond County is inviting community members to participate in its annual Day of Caring on Wednesday, Sept. 12.
The Day of Caring was established to promote the spirit and value of volunteerism, increase awareness of local human service agencies and demonstrate what people working together for the community’s good can accomplish.
On the Day of Caring, volunteers pitch in to help with various projects for non-profits around the county.
“Typically the organizations that apply to have us help that day are among our member agencies,” said Michelle Parrish, executive director of UWRC.
Funds for various projects are provided by the organizations, United Way simply organizes a large number of people to go out and do the work. Each year, more than 100 volunteers participate.
“The agencies we’ll be volunteering for this year haven’t been chosen yet,” said Parrish.
Last year’s projects included: beautification at Cordova School and the Literacy Council; serving lunch at Ellerbe Senior Center; painting at Richmond Christian Counseling; packing bags for Backpack Pals; painting at Sandhills Children’s Center; and doing construction on a Habitat home.
“We just provide the manpower for projects that organizations might need a little help getting done,” said Parrish.
Individuals, corporations, churches and school groups are welcome to sign up for a day of volunteering.
“We work from about 9 a.m. until 4 p.m., but the hours are flexible. We’ll take any help, any time we can get it that day,” said Parrish. “A lot of businesses are really great about allowing employees to spend the day volunteering as well.”
Owner of Family Pharmacy, in Rockingham, Scott Brewer encourages his employees to participate.
“We have a small staff, so everyone can’t go — but, as a local business owner, I think it’s important to help support others in the community,” said Brewer.
The deadline to volunteer is Aug. 9. Contact Parrish at 910-997-2173 or michelleparrish@bellsouth.net to receive a copy of the registration form.
— Staff Writer Kelli Easterling can be reached at 910-997-3111, ext. 18, or by email at keasterling@heartlandpublications.com.
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