More than 2,000 corporate volunteers recently participated in Heart of Florida United Way (HFUW) United Way Days of Caring, the largest annual volunteer event in Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties. From company managers and theme park executives to commercial bankers and state employees, 2,232 local volunteers reached out to help neighbors in need. In all, employees from 56 companies contributed more than 9,430 hours and completed 72 projects at 32 local agencies supported by HFUW. As a result, these organizations received the equivalent of $201,569 in volunteer service and support.
While some projects kicked off in mid-September, a majority of activities took place on Friday, September 28. The final and largest project occurred on Saturday, October 20 when more than 1,000 volunteers from Lockheed Martin, Inc., HFUW’s third-largest corporate financial contributor, began their day at The Salvation Army, then dispersed to various agencies throughout Orange County. From installing kitchen cabinets and a new computer room at the Parramore Kidz Zone to painting walkways at the Nap Ford Community School, Lockheed Martin volunteers also completed similar projects at House for Hope, the Coalition for the Homeless, the Adult Rehabilitation Center and Orlando Day Nursery.
“We very much appreciate the volunteer support, whether it’s playing with the children or helping to spruce up the grounds for the children to be able to enjoy,” said Mata Dennis, executive director of the Orlando Day Nursery. “The parents of many children in our program work two jobs and are in school, so this extra attention from volunteers is just what the children need to feel special. It truly makes a positive difference in their lives, and we know that their parents appreciate the support as well.”
Other participating Days of Caring corporate partners included Publix Super Markets, Wells Fargo, Enterprise Holdings, Florida Hospital and Fifth Third Bank – to name just a few. While building teamwork and company morale, volunteers learned about the challenges facing those in need and took satisfaction in making a difference.
“Volunteerism is a great way for area businesses and individuals to demonstrate their commitment to the community,” said Robert H. (Bob) Brown, president/CEO Heart of Florida United Way. “Days of Caring highlights what can be accomplished when all segments of our community work together to help others. This year’s turnout indicates that momentum is building to provide even greater volunteer support for local nonprofits as our community continues to recover from the economic recession.”
For information about how to get involved, contact Heart of Florida United Way at (407) 835-0900 or visit www.hfuw.org.
