United Way Day of Action: One Day. One Mission. Countless Ripples of Good.
Each year, United Way of Cass-Clay’s Day of Action serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when we come together as a community. This annual event is not just about giving back – it’s about creating a collective impact that makes a lasting difference. Volunteers from all walks of life join forces to contribute their time, energy, and skills to help local nonprofits and make our community stronger, one action at a time. Whether it’s through hands-on projects or eye-opening experiences, the Day of Action brings people together to make real change happen.
At its core, Day of Action is about collective impact. In 2024, more than 400 volunteers gathered across our community, stepping out of their daily routines to pour into something bigger than themselves. From first-time volunteers to seasoned community advocates, the stories and feedback from the day echo a common theme: joy, purpose, and connection. “Thank you for orchestrating such an amazing community event!” shared one volunteer. But more than fun, for many, it was transformational. The Poverty Simulation left a profound impact on participants, providing a glimpse into the difficult decisions faced by individuals experiencing poverty or homelessness.
“It was eye-opening. I have even greater compassion and respect for families who navigate these challenges daily.”
“Thank you so much for the opportunity to learn more about the very real issue of poverty in our community!”
This is what Day of Action is all about – engaging both the heart and the hands. It’s about learning while doing, and creating a deeper empathy through service and how, united, we can create change for our community.
Volunteers Angie Scoville and Amy Miller pulling weeds from a vegetable garden during the 2024 United Way Day of Action at the Jeremiah Program, one of United Way’s Verified Impact Partners. The garden is enjoyed by single moms and their children who live at the Jeremiah Program, which provides resources, supports and quality childcare for single mother families experiencing poverty while moms pursue college.
Volunteering Is Good for Communities – and Good for Us
Research consistently shows that volunteering doesn’t just benefit the people and organizations being served, it boosts the well-being of volunteers, too. According to the Corporation for National & Community Service, people who volunteer report lower levels of stress, anxiety, and depression.
Volunteering also strengthens community ties. A Stanford study found that volunteer activities increase social trust, a key factor in building resilient and thriving communities. People who volunteer together often report stronger connections with coworkers, neighbors, and the causes they support.
One group shared how their team spent the day supporting Furniture Mission of the Red River Valley, where they inventoried household items to help improve services for local families in need:
“We took a few hours to help inventory all the furniture and other items at Furniture Mission of the Red River Valley as part of United Way of Cass-Clay’s Day of Action. We left feeling proud to be a small part of their mission to serve our community. FUN FACT: last year they served over 730 families with nearly 9,300 pieces of furniture!” shared the team from Zerr Berg Architects.
“It’s so fun to see our community show up for each other. I truly believe that together we can do great things for our community and so when we all work together we can create the change our community needs and the people and families in our community truly deserve,” said Christie Lewandoski, Director of Resource Development for United Way Cass Clay.
Building Bridges Across the Community
The event also offered a unique opportunity for connection – with fellow volunteers, nonprofit organizations, and the community itself.
“It is great to meet others in the community and other businesses. Thanks for the opportunity to learn about the nonprofits helping people in our community!”
“This was a great experience to volunteer with other people in the community to Do Good.”
Many participants appreciated the ability to make a real, visible difference—and enjoyed the camaraderie of working together toward a common cause.
“I LOVED being hands on & knowing I was able to make a difference. Many hands make light and fast work. It was a great experience and I’m glad I was able to be a part of it.”
“Awesome and rewarding event!”
KVRR TV News joined volunteers at a local homeless shelter to learn more about the challenges of homelessness in our community and to do some landscaping and beautify and clean spaces where families experiencing homelessness seek shelter – here’s the story: United Way Day of Action Brings Surge in Volunteerism in the Metro.
WDAY and The Forum joined volunteers at various locations through the community during the 2024 Day of Action.
Looking Ahead to Day of Action 2025
As we get ready for this year’s Day of Action on May 14, 2025, here’s what we are excited about:
• Volunteers will complete over 1,200 hours of service in a single day.
• This equates to a community investment of more than $40,188, based on the 2024 estimated national value of a volunteer hour, which is $33.49 (source: Independent Sector’s 2024 Value of Volunteer Time Report).
That’s the power of unity in action—time, energy, and heart, all focused on building a stronger Cass-Clay community.
United is the way we will create a better community for all of us.
Let’s keep the action going. Let’s keep building a community where everyone can thrive.
Join our annual Day of Action or learn more about other great upcoming events.