(Shreveport, LA) – United Way of Northwest Louisiana hosted Day of Caring, a one-day, community-wide volunteer event that allows United Way donors and companies an opportunity to see their contributions at work. It connects local business and industry with nonprofit agencies in need of assistance. More than 200 volunteers from more than 20 area businesses and organizations participated in helping 24 nonprofit agencies complete volunteer projects. Day of Caring is the most visible United Way effort!
Projects offered volunteers a first-hand opportunity to learn about health and human service needs in Northwest Louisiana. Worksite projects included painting, landscaping, clerical work, sorting food and clothing, and deep cleaning. Margaritaville Resort Casino, KTBS and KPXJ, Paragon Press, Barksdale Federal Credit Union, Gamvest, L.P. and Gamble Guest Care Group, and Music Mountain Water all stepped up to sponsor Day of Caring.
“It is truly amazing to see so many individuals who are willing to help their neighbor, roll up their sleeves, lend a hand, and do the things that are necessary to make sure this area and the people who call it home are safe and strong,” said Bruce Willson, President and CEO of United Way of Northwest Louisiana.
Northwest Louisiana is a combination of committed companies, compassionate people and quality health and human service. These programs ensure that people are taken care of, children have a safe place to go after school, quality services are available for the disabled, seniors receive hot meals, and job training and placement is available to those who truly want to work.
“Not only are the companies and volunteers providing a much needed service today for community programs, but they will be impacted by the people they meet, the faces they see, and those they work alongside. It’s not about the program, or the nonprofit, it is about the people,” said Willson.
For the past 94 years, United Way of Northwest Louisiana has improved lives of individuals by creating opportunities for a better life. Today, the organization is reaching beyond the historical role of passing through fundraising dollars and focusing efforts on specific goals in Education, Income and Health, while continuing to provide a safety net to ensure that the basic needs of individuals in crisis are still met. United Way of Northwest Louisiana serves nonprofit agencies throughout the 10 parish region. Anyone interested in becoming involved, making a donation, or volunteering time is encouraged to contact United Way at 677-2504 or visit www.unitedwaynwla.org.