GET INVOLVED IND AYS OF CARING THIS YEAR

It's easier to care when the need is apparent. The Area Wide United Way knows the needs of the 25 agencies its serves. But through its annual Days of Caring, others receive a firsthand look into what these agencies do. Volunteers also see what more these agencies could do with sufficient manpower and dollars. More volunteers and potential contributors should consider participating in Days of Caring Sept. 10-11.

This marks the fifth year for Days of Caring. The event was organized as a way to let employees see where their company paycheck deductions for United Way are used in the community. But United Way would like to expand its scope this year as a way to increase volunteerism. That's a good idea. It is hoped that Days of Caring volunteers may see the need and continue to give of their time as well as their dollars.

The Days of Caring projects are as different as the various agencies. Volunteers can help children through Boy and Girl Scouts or several school projects. They can help deliver meals at senior centers in Cape Girardeau and Jackson. They can help put the finishing touches on a Habitat for Humanity house. They can sack groceries at the Jackson Ministerial Alliance food pantry. They can help construct a wheelchair ramp for the SEMO Alliance for Disability Independence. The list goes on and on.

Days of Caring is one of the first major events after the United Way officially kicks off its campaign Aug. 26. A luncheon that day will recognize volunteers, agencies, clients and donors.

Last year, United Way had an extraordinary campaign, easily surpassing its goal of $625,000. In all, more than $700,000 was raised. The United Way will announce this year's goal at the luncheon.

Several factors contribute to the growing success of United Way including its Days of Caring program. Over the years, United Way has become more visible in the community. The fact its funding has shifted from agencies to programs may also be more palatable to contributors. The United Way will support 42 programs at the 25 different agencies with this year's drive.

It's easier for people to see their United Way dollars at work through programs such as Days of Caring. Supporting United Way is an easy, but tangible way to make Cape Girardeau County a better place to live and work.