Registration for United Way's 'Day of Caring' starts Wednesday

COLUMBUS, Ind. - Bartholomew County residents are invited to take part in Day of Caring, a one-day, community-wide celebration of volunteerism that brings together individuals, families, businesses, civic groups, churches, and local government.

This year's event on May 15 plays a critical role in helping non-profits operate more efficiently. By completing physical and administrative tasks, volunteers free up agency staff to focus on their core missions—such as providing food, shelter, health care, education, and other essential services to members of the community.

Registration for this year’s event will open around noon on April 15, with 625 volunteer slots available, the highest number offered in recent history.
Both morning and afternoon shifts will begin at the United Way Firehouse, 130 Hutchins Ave., which will serve as the central hub for the day’s activities.

Upon arrival, volunteers will receive an official event t-shirt, collect tickets for complimentary items, connect with fellow volunteers, and join a large group photo before heading out to project sites across the county. Food trucks will be available on-site during the lunch hour, offering volunteers the opportunity to enjoy a meal and connect with others before or after their shifts.

As a token of appreciation, volunteers will receive:   

• A complimentary drink (coffee or dirty soda) from Dorothy’s Playhouse
• A cookie from Cookie Paradise
• One drink of their choice at Hog Molly (options include soda, beer, or wine)

In addition to service projects, this year’s event will feature an on-site blood drive. Because the blood drive is listed as a separate volunteer opportunity, participants are encouraged to register in advance. Registration for the blood drive is open to both the public and volunteers and can be
accessed here.   

The event welcomes volunteers of all ages and skill levels. Interested volunteers should visit uwbarthco.org, click on the “Volunteer” tab, and select “Day of Caring” to complete the registration process and to pick their projects.