A Day of Action: SVUW Volunteers Unite Across the Valley to Support Local Nonprofits
37 Sites. 5 Counties. One Extraordinary Day of Community Service.
Today, more than 390 volunteers are rolling up their sleeves and getting to work at 37 project sites across Columbia, Montour, Northumberland, Snyder, and Union Counties as part of the Susquehanna Valley United Way’s annual Day of Action.
From morning into the afternoon, teams of volunteers—from individuals and families to company groups—are painting, planting, organizing, cleaning, building, and more. Projects are underway at libraries, playgrounds, youth centers, food pantries, veteran programs, and dozens of other community-based nonprofits.
“Seeing so many of our community members who are willing to get out and volunteer their time truly embodies our mission here at SVUW,” said Mark Stankiewicz, newly appointed President and CEO of Susquehanna Valley United Way. “It may seem like such a simple act, but sometimes the easiest things can make the biggest difference. We would like to thank all the volunteers for choosing to make that difference with us today.”
This powerful day of giving back brings neighbors together while helping local organizations tackle real needs—many of which can be completed in a single day thanks to the energy and dedication of volunteers.
“Day of Action is the perfect example of how people can have a positive impact on our communities and get the satisfaction of helping others,” shared Steve Keifer, SVUW Board President and Events Committee Member. “The SVUW embodies the spirit of cooperation and organizing for a cause. The Events Committee, under the leadership of Danielle Velkoff, spent months planning, organizing, and implementing this year's event. Kudos to the hundreds of volunteers who made it an outstanding community event.”
A Day of Impact
Each county has its own unique set of projects. Volunteers are helping beautify outdoor spaces, prepare community gardens, support literacy efforts, and revitalize areas that serve children, seniors, and families.
“I look forward to this event every year,” shared Jennifer Delbaugh from Berks Technical Institute. “I’ve been volunteering with the United Way’s Day of Action for eight or nine years now. It’s always a great time to meet new people, connect with the community, and it feels good knowing you’re helping someone.”
“About a year ago, we were told after an inspection that our playground would need to be resurfaced in order for us to continue using it,” shared Executive Director Denise Baney. “While we wait to hear back on grants to cover the $200,000 cost, we’re so thankful for the Day of Action volunteers who are helping us revamp another outdoor area—Project Playground: A Classroom Without Walls—to continue fostering creativity and enhancing gross motor play.”
Project sites include AGAPE, Danville Child Development Center, the Bloomsburg Children’s Museum, DIG Furniture Bank, the Campus Theatre, and dozens more. A full list is available at svuw.org/dayofaction.
Powered by Community
This year’s Day of Action is made possible thanks to the generous support from our Community Champion Sponsors: Berks Technical Institute, Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit, and UPMC, along with our Impact Investors, Leadership Sponsors, and In-Kind Donors.
Together, we’re proving that even one day can make a big difference when our community comes together.
To learn how to get involved in the other United Way initiatives and projects, visit svuw.org.
