500 Take Part in 2006 Youth Day of Caring

United Way’s seventh annual Youth Day of Caring event kicked off Martin Luther King Jr. weekend with a day of volunteering for area youth. The event began at 8 a.m. Saturday, January 14th at Stadium High School (6229 S. Tyler Tacoma, WA 98409) where former Seattle Sonic James Donaldson got the group motivated. More than 500 youth and mentors participated in the day-long community service event.

After the breakfast rally, community members teamed up with youth volunteers from over 40 schools, churches and other local community organizations to complete 37 projects around Pierce County. Projects ranged from cleaning and painting to interacting with seniors and children.

In response to the need created by Hurricane Katrina evacuees relocated to Pierce County, a student booth at South Hill Mall worked to raise funds that will benefit hurricane victims in this community.

Volunteering for Youth Day of Caring demonstrates the impact youth can make in their communities and celebrates the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The event also provided an opportunity for youth to learn more about their community and how volunteering can make a positive impact.

Special THANKS to Youth Day of Caring sponsors Costco and Krispy Kreme for providing breakfast for the event.

For more information on Youth United, Contact Bethany Singleton at youthunited@uwpc.org or at 253-597-6685.

Messy Work, Fuzzy Feelings - by STEVE MAYNARD; The News Tribune Published: January 15th, 2006