United Way to Galvanize Hundreds for National Volunteer Week

In recognition of National Volunteer Week (April 7-13) and part of its Seasons of Caring volunteer strategy, United Way for Southeastern Michigan will organize nearly 300 volunteers for impact across Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties. Among the projects scheduled during the national week of service is a community project supporting United Way’s Education initiative. More than 100 volunteers will assemble 1,000 early learning literacy kits and 25 Bookshare Boxes, each containing 100 books, to support children’s preparedness for kindergarten. In addition, one lucky volunteer will have a chance to win a $500 Target gift card during the community project from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 13 at Focus Hope, located at 1400 Oakman Blvd. in Detroit.

The national week of service also aligns with United Way’s volunteer strategy. Last fall during the organization’s Annual Community Giving Campaign kickoff, the Seasons of Caring volunteer strategy was launched to deepen community engagement beyond just the giving of dollars. The strategy also undergirds United Way’s four community impact targets: Education (spring); Health (summer); Basic Needs (fall); and Economic Prosperity (winter). Since launching its volunteer strategy nearly 6,000 volunteers have signed up on United Way’s volunteer portal for meaningful volunteer experiences year-round.

“We take pride organizing worthwhile opportunities for those wanting to get involved in their community,” says Chris Perry, chief development and marketing officer, United Way for Southeastern Michigan. “Our goal is to provide a range of volunteer opportunities no matter the time of year, and National Volunteer Week is the perfect occasion to roll up our sleeves to share our time and talent to benefit others.”

To sign up for United Way volunteer opportunities during National Volunteer Week or at any time, visit www.unitedwaysem.org/volunteer. For more information about United Way for Southeastern Michigan visit www.UnitedWaySEM.org.