United way hosts Day of Caring

The United Way of Greater of Greater Simcoe County hosted its second annual Day of Caring on Thursday, October 18. Employees from Eli Lilly and Molson's participated in two community projects involving group homes for the Simcoe County Association for the Physically Disabled and Simcoe Community Services agencies.

"In addition to participating in a workplace campaign, this is another excellent way for employers to get involved with United Way," said Seija Suutari, the United Way branch's executive director. "Charitable organizations often struggle to maintain their physical infrastructure due to lack of resources. Participating in our Day of Caring, by bringing all hands on deck, can quickly transform a ratty yard or drab rooms into spruced up condition in no time."

The day was established to promote the spirit and value of volunteerism, increase the awareness of local human service agencies, and demonstrate what people working together for the community's good can accomplish. This program allows volunteers from local businesses and organizations to report to work sites at local non-profit organizations to tackle meaningful volunteer projects as determined by the United Way.

"We are so pleased about the completion of this project", said Community Services CEO Lynn Price. "This has been on our radar for such a long time; it was nice to see our group home yard cleaned-up and become a more functional space for those we support."

Volunteers trimmed, weeded, raked, cleaned eaves troughs and packed bushels of yard waste. At Elaine House, in addition to yard work, they did some much needed painting.

"The Molson team in Barrie had a great time helping out the group at Elaine. We were very pleased to be able to support this special community event," said Molson's district sales manager Doug Vance. "I believe we benefited as much as the clients of Elaine."

Officials say they would like to coordinate the event twice a year, during the fall and spring.

For more information or to make a donation, call 726-2301.