The Tribune
Volunteers and service projects alike are needed for the 18th annual Day of Caring scheduled for May 13. That means you should consider figuring out how you, too, can join the effort to help make our community a better place.
The Jackson County United Way program brings volunteers from across the community to tackle a variety of projects for nonprofit groups and individuals around the county.
Project co-leaders Justin Amos and Karen Brooks recently kicked off planning meetings with the committee to begin preparations for the event.
More than 300 volunteers spread across the county last spring with paintbrushes, shovels, cleaning supplies and other items needed to help meet the needs of groups such as Head Start, Thrive Alliance and Starve Hollow State Recreation Area to name just a few. Volunteers are needed, and Brooks will be among those working, not just organizing the projects for others.
“Helping others has always been where my heart is, and I am so excited to help Jackson County by participating in another Day of Caring,” Brooks said. “It is so important for as many volunteers as possible to jump in and help Jackson County.”
A caring spirit is part of what makes the annual Day of Caring — and many other community projects — work. The trait runs deep in Jackson County residents and part of what makes us such a great place to call home. Brooks said she is always surprised at how much work gets done each year. We’ve been amazed over the years, too.
“This is such a great opportunity for all residents to help each other, better the lives of our neighbors and enhance our county for all to enjoy,” Brooks added. “It’s amazing what can be accomplished in such a few short hours.”
All nonprofit agencies in Jackson County are encouraged to complete a projects request form and return it to the United Way office no later than April 18, executive director Tonja Couch said. Senior citizens and disabled individuals needing assistance must be recommended by a nonprofit agency, church or organization to receive help through Day of Caring.
Amos said he’s impressed by the number of people and businesses that support the program. Last year, the biggest Day of Caring on record, saw 350 volunteers turn out to help work at 42 community projects.
The Day of Caring committee is excited about what the community can do together this year and have issued a challenge to see people, companies and groups involved in every Jackson County community. We hope that people from across the county accept that challenge and help make a difference.
Last year, Day of Caring volunteers focused on one big countywide project: park cleanup. Once volunteers were finished with their assigned projects, they were asked to go to the closest park and pick up trash and sticks.
Committee members would like to see this become a permanent part of the Day of Caring, Amos said. Civic organizations, church youth groups, businesses and individuals are encouraged to contact the United Way to become a part of the Day of Caring. In-kind and monetary donations are also needed since no funds from the annual United Way fundraising campaign are used to support Day of Caring projects.
Do your part. Volunteer if you can. Donate cash if you can. Help make a difference on this 18th annual Day of Caring.
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For information about volunteering for 18th annual Day of Caring, contact Bonita Dobbs, Jackson County United Way program manager, at 812-522-5450 or [email protected].
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The 18th annual Day of Caring, a Jackson County United Way community project, is in need of volunteers, donations and service projects.
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Do your part. Volunteer if you can. Donate cash if you can. Help make a difference on this 18th annual Day of Caring.
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