DAY OF CARING 2022 RECAP
36 AREA NONPROFITS IN NEED OF VOLUNTEERS.
It’s been an extremely trying time these past two years, and nonprofits have certainly stepped up to keep West Michigan going strong. From the moment the pandemic hit to now, as we continue to help our community recover, they’ve been with us every step of the way by ensuring people have healthy food to eat, safe shelter, access to vaccines and testing, and so much more.
Though we celebrate our accomplishments in overcoming challenges throughout the pandemic, we know there’s still more work to do. And with budgets and schedules already stretched beyond capacity, our local nonprofits could always use a hand up. Through this year’s Day of Caring, we helped 36 organizations in need.
32 LOCAL COMPANIES ANSWERED THE CALL
Day of Caring is Heart of West Michigan United Way’s annual county-wide service day and our community’s largest corporate volunteer event. Every September, hundreds of employees from companies across Kent County “report to work” at nonprofit organizations to volunteer their time. These volunteers help nonprofits get things done—projects they may not have the day-to-day capacity to do throughout the year. Projects typically include meal preparation and food packing, painting, landscaping and yardwork, event support, and more.
Day of Caring wouldn’t be possible without our partnerships with our business community, and we’re so grateful to the 32 companies who joined us this year. We’d also like to thank Fifth Third Bank for sponsoring this year’s event.
425 VOLUNTEERS COMPLETED 51 PROJECTS
On Friday, September 16, corporate teams spent their workday giving back. Across West Michigan, more than 425 volunteers completed 51 projects at area nonprofits. From harvesting produce and building a boardwalk to preparing food kits for seniors and beautifying our parks, every single project made the place we live and work better for everyone. This work will touch thousands of lives, and that’s truly something to celebrate.
We also hosted our Day of Caring luncheon to show our gratitude to everyone who participated. This is the first time since 2019 that we’ve been able to organize this luncheon, and we’d like to thank Meijer for donating water and dessert and Boys and Girls Club Grand Rapids for hosting us. Attendees enjoyed a delicious meal from local food trucks, commemorated the occasion with a photo wall, and heard from Michelle Van Dyke, President and CEO, about what their support means to our entire community.
Our heartfelt thanks to all our Day of Caring volunteers!
We all benefit from your hard work, and we appreciate the time you gave. Whether it was your first time volunteering or just the latest, we hope you’ll continue your journey with us.
Volunteerism is a key component of United Way’s mission, and Day of Caring is just one of many opportunities available through our Volunteer Center. Take our Volunteering Superpower Quiz to discover what kind of volunteer you are and find opportunities that fit your skills and interests.