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United Way Volunteer Extravaganza Marks 15 Years

A celebration to mark the 15th year of United Way Days of Caring in the Roanoke Valley was held October 19 at Greenvale School in northwest Roanoke.

The event brought together representatives from companies that adopted projects over the last five years and partner agencies that benefited from their work.

Special recognition was awarded to Jean Glontz, United Way volunteer who organized the first Day of Caring, and representatives from Advance Auto Parts, Allstate National Support Center, Carilion and Wachovia, leading company supporters for Days of Caring. United Way president and CEO Frank Rogan presented certificates and brief remarks before the gathering on the school’s outdoor play area.

The newest generation of Days of Caring volunteers, Glenvar High School students out for a second year, sent almost 275 teens to a half-dozen local agencies, including about 25 at Greenvale School.  Glenvar principal Curtis Hicks was introduced and thanked during the ceremony by Greenvale executive director Vernie Strouth.

Harold McLeod, Wachovia market president and United Way campaign chair, reported to the gathering that more than $2 million has been raised to date in the community wide drive to support local health and human services at United Way partner agencies. With a target exceeding $6.2 million, McLeod said it’s important for everyone to contribute.

"The results are terrific – so far – and I want to remind everyone to make your United Way gift now,” he said. “We’re counting on you – because there are people in need who will be counting on us.”

To date, 12 companies have adopted Days of Caring projects at United Way partner agencies, with about 250 volunteers.  Each receives a Days of Caring t-shirt provided by co-sponsors Advance Auto Parts and Allstate National Support Center.

United Way of Roanoke Valley supports a network of 64 health and human service programs operated by 27 partner agencies. These services are available to citizens of Roanoke, Salem, Vinton and the counties of Botetourt, Craig and Roanoke.