FRANKLIN COUNTY- Across Franklin County, United Way volunteers are lending a helping hand and making an impact in the local community. Organizations like Boys & Girls Clubs of Chambersburg and Shippensburg, Franklin County 4-H Therapeutic Riding Center, and NETwork Ministries are dedicated to supporting individuals, families, and communities in need, and their success is directly impacted by volunteer engagement. United Way of Franklin County actively works to connect interested volunteers with local organizations such as these through ongoing volunteer opportunities like “May of Caring.” This year’s May of Caring event encouraged people from all walks of life to come together and engage in acts of service that make a positive impact on the community. May of Caring 2023 included over 175 volunteers, who completed 17 service projects in and around Franklin County.
Volunteering offers unique opportunities to support local organizations and make a meaningful impact on the community. But locating or facilitating volunteer opportunities often presents challenges for busy corporate groups and community members. United Way of Franklin County addresses obstacles by serving as the connection conduit between willing hands and community needs. To facilitate impactful volunteer experiences, the United Way office is a frenzy of coordination beginning in late winter. United Way staff work with local nonprofit leaders to identify highest priority needs, which can range from organizing storage areas to painting and simple construction tasks. After the projects have been selected, United Way works to match project opportunities and volunteers, based on interests, availability, geographic location, and other relevant factors. Using a simplified online sign up form this year, volunteers were able to explore projects available and register with a few quick clicks. “I look forward to getting with Franklin County Government’s Leadership Development Program group and volunteering at United Way’s May of Caring. I think it’s important to give back and help your community, and I’m fortunate to show up with a group each year with that same vision,” says Keri Kenney, Franklin County employee and United Way volunteer.
Volunteers bring a broad range of knowledge and skills to the projects, which benefit the project recipients in ways that extend well beyond May of Caring. “We frequently hear from volunteers that they continue to build a relationship with the nonprofit organization, after spending the day volunteering and learning about the work done through the agency,” says Tiffany Frederick, United Way Board Member. To learn more about May of Caring or other volunteer opportunities in the community, contact United Way of Franklin County at (717) 262-0018. Upcoming events and opportunities are also highlighted on their website at www.uwfcpa.org.
