United Way’s Day of Action set for June 21st

On Friday, June 21st, thousands of people in more than 400 communities across the world will be volunteering through United Way to make their community a better place during Day of Action. This day of service is just a snapshot of what United Way does all year long – galvanizing people around solutions to build stronger communities.

Throughout the day, United Way of 1000 Lakes will host more than a hundred volunteers in Grand Rapids to complete projects in and around the Oakland Addition neighborhood. Projects will include leaf-raking, landscaping, window washing, painting, curbside waste and recycling. Additional services offered through a partnership with Itasca County Housing and Redevelopment Authority (ICHRA) and Itasca County Habitat for Humanity will also include ramp and grab bar installation, door and window replacement, light maintenance, energy efficiency items, and more.

United Way has also kicked off their seventh annual Health and Hygiene Drive. Now through June 21, United Way will be collecting a variety of basic care items that are essential for good health and hygiene such as toothpaste, soap, and deodorant. Items will be assembled into care packs and delivered to local families and individuals through local nonprofits and schools. Donations can be dropped off at the United Way office, or these collections sites: Deerwood Bank Grand Rapids, The Children’s Discovery Museum, and Woodland Bank in Hill City. Donations will be collected through Friday, June 21. To arrange a pickup, call 999-7570.

For more information on registering a project or to sign up as a volunteer, visit our Day of Action page or call 218-999-7570.

Get involved:

Volunteer on the Day of Action:
Take time out of your day and volunteer with hands-on projects, including painting, landscaping, and yard maintenance activities. There is no fee to participate and volunteers of any age and ability are eligible to participate. Each volunteer will receive a free t-shirt and lunch will be provided by Sweet Amelia’s Cupcakery. Register for a full day (8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.) or half day (8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.)

Register a Project:
The Day of Action aims to connect residents with caring volunteers to work on projects in and around their homes. Oakland Addition residents interested in participating should call 999-7570 or register online.

Run a Health & Hygiene Drive:
Coordinate a collection drive at your church, organization, civic group or business. Needed items include: toothbrushes; full-size hair care products (children and adult), toothpaste, and deodorant; razors; shaving cream; laundry detergent; first aid supplies; diapers and baby wipes; feminine hygiene products; paper products (toilet paper, paper towns, Kleenex); razors, shaving cream, and new wash cloths and hand and bath towels.

Wear your Shirt:
If you cannot volunteer on Day of Action, you can still show your support for United Way by wearing your LIVE UNITED shirt on June 21st. Shirts can be purchased for $10 (includes a $5 donation to United Way) at United Way.