The Indian River County community rallied together once again for a day of giving back, as United Way’s 28th Annual Day of Caring took place on Saturday, October 21, 2023. As the largest one-day service event on the Treasure Coast, the event brought together an impressive assembly of volunteers, nonprofits, and organizations, all dedicated to making a positive impact.
This year’s event saw a remarkable turnout of over 800 volunteers who collectively tackled 60 projects that spanned across various areas of community improvement. United Way’s 28th Annual Day of Caring was made possible, once again, through the generous sponsorship of Publix Super Markets.
Volunteer groups from diverse backgrounds and industries, including Bank of America Merrill Lynch, CERT, Northern Trust, Nuttall, Donini, and Associates, Riverside Theatre, Rehmann, Boston Retail Solutions, PNC, Seacoast Bank, Schlitt Insurance Services, among many others, joined hands to make this event a resounding success.
The event kicked off at the Jackie Robinson Training Complex, where volunteers gathered for a hearty breakfast, generously provided by Joe and MaryAnn Conrado and Jeremy Odom, local owners and operators of McDonald’s, along with refreshing beverages from Natalie’s Orchid Island Juice. The morning began with energizing routines from the VBHS Cheer Squad and band and a fun warm-up session courtesy of TBLB Fitness.
Projects hosted by various nonprofits, including the Salvation Army, Hope for Families Center, Hibiscus Children’s Center, Indian River County Healthy Start Coalition, Habitat for Humanity, Senior Resource Association, the Substance Awareness Center, and many others, showcased the diverse ways in which volunteers contributed to the community. Volunteers rolled up their sleeves to make a difference, from painting and weeding to trimming, organizing, and creating heartfelt greeting cards. In addition, 250 literacy kits were thoughtfully assembled by First Presbyterian Church members and donated to RCMA.
“Every year, our Day of Caring brings to light the true spirit of our community, where neighbors come together to make a difference,” said Chief Executive Officer, Meredith Egan. “As we face daily challenges, it’s a reminder that even the smallest acts of kindness can create a world of good. When we seize the opportunity to give back, we not only contribute to something meaningful, but we also find fulfillment in our hearts.”
The event’s success was further bolstered by Gould Cooksey Fennell’s donation of water and PNC Bank’s Grow Up Great grant which contributed to the supplies used for the early learning kits. These kits will enhance childhood development in Indian River County through RCMA, catering to children aged 6 weeks to 5 years.
While the Day of Caring event brings the community together for a day of service, United Way’s hub for volunteer opportunities, Volunteer Indian River County, has been revamped to offer year-round opportunities for those looking to make a lasting impact. Visit VolunteerIndianRiverCounty.org to search for local opportunities.
To view a gallery of captivating images from the Day of Caring 2023, please visit UnitedWayIRC.org.
For more information about United Way of Indian River County and their ongoing efforts to create a healthier and stronger community, please visit UnitedWayIRC.org or call (772) 567-8900.
About United Way of Indian River County
United Way of Indian River County (UWIRC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that fights for the health, education, and financial stability of every community member. United Way works with local programs to provide resources to individuals and families in crisis today while working year-round to improve community conditions and create lasting solutions. We are effectively building a strong foundation and improving lives by mobilizing the caring power of our community. For more information about your local United Way, please call (772) 567-8900 or visit our website, UnitedWayIRC.org.
