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Glenvar Students Observe Day of Caring

            An estimated 250 Glenvar High School students observed United Way Day of Caring throughout the Roanoke Valley on October 13.
            Seven different human service organizations planned work for student volunteers to undertake. The project was spearheaded by United Way Youth Initiative volunteers Jean Glontz and Lucy Walton. School principal Curtis Hicks also took part in the event and accompanied students at work.
            The action began at Glenvar High School when students began to congregate at 8:30 a.m. The United Way mascot, Hi-Five the Helping Hand, was in attendance as volunteers left the school on buses at 9 a.m. to go to these sites:

• United Way Partner Agencies: Greenvale School, Northwest Child Development Center, Salvation Army (67 students assigned here, the largest single group, including school principal Hicks) and the Southwest Virginia Second Harvest Food Bank.
• Other sites: Friendship Manor, Richfield Retirement Community, Camp Roanoke for Roanoke County Parks & Rec

            Days of Caring, observed during the United Way community campaign since 1991, demonstrates the value and importance of supporting local human needs. Traditionally, volunteers have come from companies that are running United Way campaigns. “Needless to say, we are delighted that youth are adding their energy and enthusiasm to the cause,” said Barry Henderson of SunTrust Bank, 2005 United Way Campaign Chair.
            All buses returned to the school at 1 p.m. Students wore t-shirts custom made for the day.
            An essay contest with prizes furnished by Pepsi Bottlers of Roanoke gave students an opportunity to reflect on the day and what they gained from participating. Winning essays can be found by clicking here.
            The United Way of Roanoke Valley campaign supports health and human service programs in Botetourt, Craig and Roanoke counties, and Roanoke, Salem and Vinton. The organization’s mission is to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of people in our community.