‘A good experience’ – Volunteers help community at Day of Caring
Published 2:01 pm Sunday, September 28, 2014
Seven-year-old Aliva Hemry rakes leaves at an east Austin home Saturday morning. Hemry was with an Austin Utilities group taking part in the United Way of Mower County’s Day of Caring.
Eric Johnson/photodesk@austindailyherald.com
Volunteers were out among Austin neighborhoods in force Saturday morning. Some painted houses, others trimmed bushes, and many washed windows, cleaned up yards, waterproofed decks and more.
Their efforts were all part of the ninth annual Day of Caring through the United Way of Mower County.
“It’s so exciting,” said Diane Baker, executive director of the United Way. “The homeowners are especially appreciative.”
The event matches teams of volunteers ranging from one to 21 people with homeowners who need help finishing projects they can’t get done themselves. The event draws dozens of volunteers each year, from helpful residents to entire high school sports teams.
Brandon Hemry edges a lawn during the United Way’s Day of Caring Saturday. Eric Johnson/photodesk@austindailyherald.com
“This is our third year doing it,” Austin High School Girls Soccer Coach Enrique Camarena-Corzo said. “It’s so much fun. The community has done a lot for us and we like to give back. Plus it’s a good experience for the girls.”
Volunteers spent Saturday morning and part of Saturday afternoon finishing projects. United Way staff said more volunteers will finish projects and help build a Habitat for Humanity House this Wednesday.
Day of Caring is the first big event for the United Way this fall. United Way staff will begin the nonprofit’s annual campaign drive next week.