All in a day's work

SUBMITTED PHOTOS  

ABOVE: Pliant Corporation employees work at the Humane Society of Wayne County during A Day of Caring.

BELOW: Constellation Energy employees help  out at the Wayne Arts Council during a Day of Caring.

NEWARK - More than 90 volunteers from local businesses and organizations traded office attire for jeans and t-shirts to demonstrate volunteerism at its best May 20.

Everyone proved once again that they care about the community by reporting to work sites at local non- profit organizations to tackle meaningful volunteer projects. Volunteers made a difference and all went really well said Carol Pettis, regional director for United Way of Wayne County.

'The teams had it together,' said Pettis. 'They showed up and they really worked. It's amazing how much got done and how smoothly it went. The weather was perfect.'

The day kicked off at the Alex Eligh Community Center with hot coffee, breakfast pizza, bagels and an update on the campaign goal. Everyone received a Live United t-shirt before they headed out to their volunteer assignments.

'The Day of Caring is an event that raises awareness for the United Way,' said Heather Chapman, United Way campaign chair. 'There's a lot of support in the business sector and they give their employees half a day off or maybe a full day off to do this. Some folks just take a vacation day. It's really made the effort a great success.'

For Sharon Miller and Heidi Joachimczyk of Constellation Energy, their day of gardening and landscaping at Wayne Arts Council was worth it.

'We really enjoyed our day,' they said. 'Of the events we do each year in the community, we always get great support for the United Way Day of Caring events. Over the years we have been able to help out some very deserving clients.'

Pliant Corporation painted at the humane society.

'Day of Caring is a great opportunity to come together outside the pressure of the work environment and serve our community,' said Craig Finely, plant manager for Pliant Corporation in Macedon. 'We always have a good time and plenty of laughs, while benefitting from the satisfaction of helping others.'

'We've been volunteering for the United Way Day of Caring for seven years now and it's a great way to do something different while helping out others,' they said.

Day of Caring, which closed the 2009 United Way campaign, is a countywide effort designed to contribute volunteer time to community projects. More than 15 area companies and 90 volunteers donated time to 19 community projects, which included yard maintenance, cleaning, painting, construction and repairs, office work and serving meals.

This day would not be possible without the generous volunteers and companies that allow them to participate. On behalf of all the local agencies, thanks are extended for their time and effort in all the projects.

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