Granite United Way Day of Caring sees nearly 1,000 volunteers give back

LACONIA — Volunteers rolled up their sleeves and offered sweat equity to local nonprofits during the Granite United Way Day of Caring on Sept. 25. Granite United Way worked with nonprofits to match wish list projects with volunteers ready and willing to donate their time. 

“Day of Caring is one of our favorite days of the year. We are on track to break records with Day of Caring volunteer numbers this year – a tribute to the giving spirit of individuals across the Central Region,” said Patrick Tufts, president and chief executive officer. “We are proud to partner with corporate supporters connecting them with nonprofits across the region who can benefit from this incredible day of service.”

Nearly 1,000 volunteers were spread out across the area to help 46 local nonprofits, completing 75 projects like landscaping, painting, and office assistance. Three schools participated, Pleasant Street School, New Hampton School and Tilton School. There were 22 companies that sent volunteers this year.

Day of Caring in the Central Region is sponsored by AFL and Meredith Village Savings Bank. A kick off luncheon was held for volunteers and agencies at the Belknap Mill and at Whole Village Family Resource Center.

At the Wetlands Walk Boardwalk, a team of New Hampshire state employees worked on projects like mounting directional signs and trail numbers, managing pollinator gardens, installing a kiosk, removal of invasive plant species, and adding dockware to raise a bridge.  

At Boys and Girls Club of Central New Hampshire, more than 70 community volunteers, Tilton School volunteers, and Pleasant Street School volunteers came to help.

New Hampton School students spent the day at Tilton Veterans’ Home sanding and staining flag poles, as well as building scarecrows and decorating for the upcoming Family Fun Night.

New Hampton School volunteers assisted with a Pemi Valley Habitat for Humanity build on Martin Estates Drive.  

For more information about Granite United Way, visit www.graniteuw.org.