United Way Day of Caring: Thousands Take Off Work--Give Helping Hand
By: Charlie De Mar
Updated: August 2, 2012
Over 70 different service projects were on display--all with the same goal. Giving back.
"I don't get a lot of time to give back to the community so this day is important because it is one day that I can guarantee that I'm out here and I'm doing something for the community and giving back," said Amy Carr, a volunteer with UPS.
For those receiving the helping hand--days like today are met with open arms.
"On one hand yes it's very supportive for organizations like us to get the extra help from the community and we feel like it's a true partnership and we are thankful for that," said Joel Usina, client services, Genesis Outreach.
Ups workers delivered assistance to Joel Usina, of the genesis outreach-a transitional living center with some much needed landscaping.
To see the UPS staff and the united way come out to do this for us is just phenomenal we are so thankful for the time, the work and resources they put into this project," said Usina.
Thousands of volunteers from businesses throughout the city hung up their ties and picked up a paint brush for this day of caring.
"It's a real neat opportunity for people to get out of the office get off the shop floor get away from their daily routines, the emails and phone calls and just give back to the community," said Todd Stephenson, president and CEO of Allen County United Way.
"It's nice to get out of the operation and see the guys out here in their shorts that are normally in suits, it's nice to kind of let loose and have a good fun day where are not so serious," said Carr.
The 20th annual day of caring gives the community much more than a face-lift.
"It gives a greater sense of awareness and appreciation for the work and many challenges we have in our community, " said Stephenson.
Today's event took over a year to prepare, in fact, The United Way says that the planning for the 21st annual day of caring starts first thing tomorrow.
