Volunteerism: One Day Can Make a Lifetime of Difference

Published on: June 21, 2018 | by uwdecatur

Volunteering your time and service is one of the greatest gifts you can give. It also provides invaluable experiences for the volunteers. Just ask the tens of thousands of people who come together to create permanent and positive change during United Way’s Day of Action.

Held on and around June 21 each year, Day of Action is an opportunity for volunteers, donors and advocates to fight with United Way for the health, education and financial stability of every person in every community. It also offers a snapshot of what United Way does all year long—galvanize people around solutions to improve lives and strengthen communities.

From building playgrounds to conducting food drives, volunteers spend the day creating lasting solutions to local issues. Contact your local United Way to see what they’re doing for Day of Action and how you can help. By stepping up in support of others, you can make a mark in your neighborhood and the lives of your neighbors. Here are a few examples of United Ways doing just that:

• Change people’s perspectives: In India, United Way Chennai is organizing “Know My Ability” campaigns at companies and on college campuses, where people with disabilities are given the opportunity to volunteer and showcase their talent to inspire, motivate and teach others. For example, hearing-impaired volunteers are teaching sign language and physically challenged volunteers are sharing how sports helped them earn a livelihood. The goal is to sensitize the greater community to the challenges of people living with disabilities.
• Put others on a better path: In Arizona, Valley of the Sun United Way is addressing the root causes of homelessness. Volunteers with Project Connect are offering immediate access to the resources people need to start their journey back to health, financial stability and housing.
• Plant seeds for the future: In Europe, United Way Poland is organizing a nutrition education and salad-making competition for children to learn about healthy eating. When U.S. schools close for summer break, those who rely on free or reduced lunches—and other school meals—are often left hungry, which can affect their ability to learn, grow and thrive. That’s why United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey Day of Action volunteers are packing healthy meals and snacks for after-school programs and summer camps.

How will you spend your Day of Action? It’s not too late to impact your community—join the countless United Way volunteers who are giving back! Can’t make it this year? There are always opportunities to volunteer in your community. Learn more.

- Story from United Way Worldwide's Mei Cobb