MORE THAN 2,400 VOLUNTEER FOR
12th ANNUAL DAY OF CARING
Part of United Way’s ongoing effort to promote importance
of volunteerism in building a stronger community

ERIE, PA (April 19, 2008) - More than 2,400 volunteers participated in beautification and revitalization projects as part of the 12th Annual United Way Day of Caring. This event is a collaboration between United Way and government organizations, businesses, neighborhood watch groups, schools and other non-profits. The Day of Caring helps beautify the neighborhoods, local parks, playgrounds, and school grounds in Erie County while fostering the spirit of volunteerism and community pride.

“When so many individuals come together to improve the community, we see results that no one could accomplish alone,” said Alan Perez, President of United Way of Erie County. “Benefits of volunteering include increased morale, exposure in the community and a greater understanding and appreciation of how a commitment of time and money makes a difference.”

The single largest event on the Day of Caring took place at the 52nd Presque Isle Cleanup and the Great PA Cleanup. More than 400 volunteers took part in removing tires and other trash to help preserve the state park. According to Brian Gula, an Environmental Education Specialist at the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, “"Volunteers make great places better!"

One of the events for this year’s Day of Caring was the Washington Park Cleanup. Nearly 60 volunteers participated in cleaning up Irving School and the nearby Washington Park. Also, the Neighborhood Watch #13 continued their annual tradition of cleaning up Friendship Park as part of the Day of Caring. “For the sake of our community, we must all lend a hand and get involved,” said John Villa, a member of the watch group.

United Way also partnered with the City of Erie, Gannon University, Waste Management, the Erie and Millcreek School Districts and the Erie Neighborhood Watch Council. As in past years, PennDOT provided free safety vests and work gloves for use in the Day of Caring Events, and the Erie SeaWolves collaborated with United Way by offering every volunteer registered for the Day of Caring a pair of tickets to an upcoming game.

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