United Way of Berks’ Day of Caring lets volunteers help area agencies

Not only did the United Way of Berks County kick-off it’s 2012 campaign on Sept. 12, with the goal of raising $9.2 million, but the organization also held its annual Day of Caring on the same day.

Nearly 350 volunteers fanned out across the county - working on varied volunteer projects throughout the community. The volunteers included individuals as well as larger groups from area companies.

Projects included: reading to pre-school children, painting murals, sorting food at local food banks, community beautification projects and a picnic reuniting children with their incarerated mothers.

Among the volunteers were 10 Diamond Credit Union employees, who volunteered at Shady Hollow Assisted Riding inBirdsboro. Shady Hollow is a nonprofit organization which provides a supportive equine environment where individuals with physical, cognitive and/or emotional challenges can experience therapeutic, social and educational rewards. The volunteers helped to sand and varnish stall doors and wood in the barn with the help of supplies donated by the Lowes locations in Exeter Township, and Sinking Spring.

“It’s an awesome feeling to know that our employees jump at the chance to give back to the community.Diamond’s longtime relationship with the United Wa has offered so many rewarding opportunities to our employees and we are proud to Live United,” stated John Faust, President/CEO of Diamond Credit Union.

South Mountain YMCA Camps hosted 50 volunteers. The list of projects included weed-wacking, lawn mowing, wood cutting, painting and staining, cabin cleaning, shower house cleaning, washing vehicles, pool clean-up and closing, fence washing, horse tack cleaning and flower bed cleaning.