KENNEBEC VALLEY, ME – This spring and fall, United Way of Kennebec Valley (UWKV) is partnering with a record-breaking 26 local schools and programs, along with area businesses, to host student Days of Caring — an initiative that connects student volunteers with meaningful projects at local nonprofits, schools and community sites. Through these events, students experience firsthand the power of working together to strengthen their communities.

“Each year, Days of Caring gives students an opportunity to step outside the classroom and see the direct impact they can have on their community,” said Katelyn Pushard, Director of Community Impact at UWKV. “With 26 schools participating this year — our largest number ever — it’s inspiring to see so many young people eager to give back.”

Thanks to the dedication of participating schools and the support of local businesses, the Day of Caring program continues to highlight the impact of volunteerism. United Way is proud to collaborate with these young leaders as they make a tangible difference in Kennebec Valley. At Cony High School, where students will participate on April 30, Principal Kim Liscomb emphasized the value of service learning: “Cony is proud to participate in the Day of Caring events through the United Way. The Day of Caring offers students a valuable chance to connect with their community in a meaningful way. Through hands-on experience, they build a sense of civic responsibility and witness the impact of their efforts.”

Cony High School has been involved with Day of Caring for 25 years, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to giving back.

Student-Designed Shirts Debut for First Time

For the first time, UWKV opened the official Day of Caring T-shirt design to student participants, giving them the opportunity to leave their creative mark on the event. Camryn Swails, a sophomore at Messalonskee High School, won the contest, and her design will be featured on almost 8,000 shirts worn across Kennebec County.

“Honestly it feels great that so many people entered, and I was the one out of everyone that won,” said Swails. “It feels great really amazing that my art will be seen across Kennebec County.”

Thank You to Our Generous Sponsors

This year’s Day of Caring events are made possible by the generosity of corporate sponsors, including:

• Headline Sponsors: Team EJP and G&E Roofing
• Presenting Sponsor: Pine State Trading
• Diamond Sponsor: Kennebec Savings Bank
• Platinum Sponsors: Central Maine Power, KV Federal Credit Union, Lajoie Brothers, Milestone Funeral Partners, NRF Distributors, and Performance Foodservice – NorthCenter
• Gold Sponsors: Maine Savings Federal Credit Union, O’Connor Auto Park, Trademark Federal Credit Union, Sprague & Curtis Real Estate, and Woodlands Senior Living

Their support ensures that students have the resources and opportunities needed to create lasting change in Kennebec Valley.

Participating Spring Schools and Dates:

• Vassalboro Community School – April 15
• Messalonskee High School – April 17
• Boys & Girls Clubs of Kennebec Valley – April 24
• Cony High School – April 30
• Marcia Buker Elementary School (Richmond) – May 2
• Richmond High School – May 2
• Richmond Middle School – May 2
• Maranacook Community Middle School – May 6
• Maranacook Community High School – May 6
• Cony Middle School – May 7
• Winthrop Middle School – May 13
• Winthrop High School – May 13
• Maine Arts Academy – May 16
• Erskine Academy – May 21
• Hussey Elementary School (Augusta) – May 23
• Gardiner Area High School – May 28
• Farrington Elementary School (Augusta) – May 29
• Lincoln Elementary School (Augusta) – June 4
• Whitefield Elementary School – June 6

United Way extends its gratitude to the students, educators and businesses who make this program possible. By fostering a culture of service and collaboration, Days of Caring empower the next generation to create a brighter future for Kennebec Valley.

For more information about United Way of Kennebec Valley and its initiatives, visit uwkv.org.