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United Way Days of Caring

Get Started! - Find a Days of Caring Project

History

Several evolving social phenomena converged in the mid-1980s that significantly changed the traditional workplace environment and demographics, as well as the ideas of voluntarism and philanthropy. While United Way organizations worked on their own to address the same issues, several communities simultaneously developed similar responses: one-day, hands-on, group volunteer events. It is unclear which United Way organization originated the event concept; however, by 1987, several organizations across the country were hosting a one-day volunteer event. These popular events involved hundreds of individuals. Initially, these volunteer events took a variety of forms and had a variety of names. However, the results were the same: volunteers, agencies, corporations and United Way organizations felt good about their experiences. Later, through the efforts of United Way of Allegheny County, these one-day events were standardized to “Day of Caring” (DOC).

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Days of Caring projects?

The Days of Caring projects offer people who live or work in Elkhart County an opportunity to contribute more than just their dollars. These projects involve people in hands-on activities in local United Way agencies. Many companies use these projects to rally enthusiasm around their annual United Way campaigns.

When do the projects have to be done?

Projects can be completed any time over the next year, depending on the nature of the activity.

Do you have to have specific skills to complete the projects?

No. Most projects only require a good attitude, a willing spirit and some elbow grease.

How do I get started?

Open the Days of Caring on this web page to see what projects are available this year. Once you have found a project that sounds interesting simply contact the agency directly to begin planning your project or if you prefer contact Darren Bickel at the United Way office (574) 295-1650 and ask for help in getting started.

What if we don’t have enough people to do a specific project?

Call the agency contact person and see if something can be worked out. Most of the time accommodations can easily be made.

Do the projects have to be done on a specific day of the week?

No. Work with the agency contact person to determine a date and time that works well for both the volunteers and the agency.

Are all the materials provided for the projects?

Yes. In some cases, your volunteers may be able to provide additional materials to help the project work even better. Talk to the agency contact person and explore the possibilities.

Can people who don’t donate to the United Way participate in Days of Caring projects?

Absolutely! For many people, this will be their first opportunity to become familiar with a local agency. Encourage them to get involved. Days of Caring projects can be fun and informative.