PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — United Way of Aroostook plans the inaugural Aroostook Day of Service on Tuesday, June 18, to engage individuals, families, businesses, civic or school groups and community organizations across Aroostook County in volunteer acts of service for their communities.
“All of us at Bemis & Rossignol, LLC are proud to support the United Way of Aroostook’s Day of Service with our sponsorship, but we also know that another valuable way to give in support of our great local non-profits is to volunteer time and talent,” said Luke Rossignol.
“For all those who already give of their time and talents, we thank you for joining us in helping our local non-profits and our community. For those who haven’t yet volunteered, we invite to you join in the wonderful opportunity to give of yourself to help our neighbors in need on the Day of Service. You will receive as much by helping others as you give.”
Some suggested projects include, but are not limited to yardwork, painting, office and clerical help, and window washing/spring cleaning. All projects to assist non-profits with the work they do will be considered.
The United Way will coordinate the day’s efforts.
“We want individuals and families as well as civic groups and local businesses throughout Aroostook County to come forward to offer their time to complete the project requests from non-profits. We hope to match volunteers with the ‘wish list’ of projects submitted by non-profits,” said Athena Hallowell, UWA program and volunteer coordinator.
Sherry Locke, UWA executive director, said some non-profits have already contacted her with some projects needing volunteers. For this first year, the United Way hopes to have 10 to 15 County-wide projects and at least 100 volunteers to help out.
“The vision of the planners is to see people of all ages out and about on June 18, doing volunteer works of service to make a positive impact on their communities,” she said. “The benefits of volunteering aren’t just for the recipient of the service, but also for the individual helping. Research suggests many social, emotional, and physical benefits to volunteering including a feeling of well-being, increased socialization, and improved mental health.”
Non-profits may submit volunteer request to Locke at 764-5197 or sherry@unitedwayaroostook.org as soon as possible. Anyone who would like to be part of the volunteer team should contact Hallowell at 764-5197 or athena@unitedwayaroostook.org.
