Day of Caring

Day of Caring 26th Anniversary: 26 Schools & Organizations Unite for Record Year
 United Way of Kennebec Valley (UWKV) is proud to announce the start of its Day of Caring season, kicking off this spring and continuing into the fall. This signature initiative brings together schools, youth programs, corporate partners and community volunteers for hands-on service projects that support local nonprofits, municipalities and organizations across the Kennebec Valley.

Now in its 26th year, Day of Caring continues to grow in both reach and impact. With participation from 26 schools and organizations, the program gives youth the opportunity to step outside the classroom and engage directly with their communities through projects such as outdoor cleanups in community spaces, gardening, painting dugouts, making dog biscuits for animal shelters, and writing letters to service members and veterans.

Local Schools Scale Up, Deepening Community Impact Regionwide

This year alone, more than 9,000 students and faculty are expected to participate, with several schools having significantly expanded their involvement.

Gardiner Area High School increased participation by nearly 250%—growing from 194 to 663 students—by opening the program to its entire student body. Maine Arts Academy is expanding participation to more grades this year, anticipating a 75% increase. Overall, Day of Caring will result in thousands of volunteer hours supporting essential community projects regionwide.

“Day of Caring is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we come together in service of our communities,” said Katelyn Pushard, Director of Community Impact at UWKV. “With a record number of students and faculty participating this year, we’re not only meeting critical needs across Kennebec Valley—we’re helping to build a culture of giving back that can last a lifetime.”

Thank You to our Generous Sponsors

 

The program thrives thanks to 15 corporate sponsors, including founding partners Team EJP and G&E Roofing Company, which have supported Day of Caring since it began in 2000. Over the years, G&E Roofing Company has transported thousands of pieces of equipment to volunteer sites. “Day of Caring makes it possible to give back alongside other local businesses in a structured, high-visibility way that strengthens community ties and aligns with our goal as a company to be socially responsible,” said Norm Elvin, President and Founder of G&E Roofing. “I’m especially proud of our team members who make it possible.”

Team EJP hosts the celebratory cookout following Day of Caring, offering volunteers, partners and community members an opportunity to come together and recognize their collective impact. With support from volunteers who assist in preparing and serving the meal, the event creates a welcoming and memorable experience for all involved.

“Day of Caring is a great way to instill a sense of unification while contributing to the betterment of the community,” said Steven Prescott, President & CEO Team EJP. “Students, volunteers, businesses and the communities served should all take pride in this collaborative effort.”

This year’s Day of Caring events are made possible by the generosity of the following corporate sponsors: Headline Sponsors: Team EJP and G&E Roofing; Presenting Sponsor: Pine State Beverage; Diamond Sponsor: Kennebec Savings Bank; and our Platinum Sponsors, Gold Sponsors and Community Supporters.

Sponsor support ensures that student volunteers are connected with meaningful service opportunities while helping local organizations meet critical needs.

Participating 2026 schools and organizations include:

  • Boys & Girls Clubs of Kennebec Valley – April 24
  • Maranacook Community Middle School – May 4
  • Maranacook Community High School – May 4
  • Cony Middle School – May 6
  • Marcia Buker Elementary School (Richmond) – May 8
  • Richmond Middle School – May 8
  • Richmond High School – May 8
  • Lincoln Elementary School (Augusta) – May 13
  • Winthrop High School – May 14
  • Winthrop Middle School – May 14
  • Erskine Academy – May 20
  • Farrington Elementary School (Augusta) – May 21
  • Hussey Elementary School (Augusta) – May 22
  • Gardiner Area High School – May 26
  • Cony High School – May 27
  • Whitefield Elementary School – May 29
  • Maine Arts Academy – June 2
  • Vassalboro Community School – June 3
  • Hall-Dale Middle School - June 9
  • Monmouth Academy - September 25
  • St. Michael School - September 25
  • Hall-Dale Elementary School - October 22
  • Waterville Senior High School - October 23
  • Hall-Dale High School - October 28
  • Monmouth Memorial School - October 30
  • Messalonskee School - November 13

United Way extends its gratitude to the students, educators and businesses who make this program possible. By fostering a culture of service and collaboration, Day of Caring events empower the next generation to create a brighter future for Kennebec Valley.

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