Volunteer, play during United Way’s Days of Action

Sponsored by United Way of Madison County, “Days of Action” on June 3-6 will involve many projects for community improvement, like a summer reading boost in schools. (CONTRIBUTED)

MADISON COUNTY – Annually in June, the “Days of Action” campaign sponsored by United Way of Madison County brings the community together for one week in one focus to improve quality of life with volunteerism.

“Whether you are 8, 18, 28, 38, 48, 58 or older … there is a place for you,” community impact director Cathy Miller said. “When you get involved in projects June 3-6 at various locations across the county, you are a part of something big that changes lives.”

The Days of Action campaign allows residents to help United Way partner organizations with special projects. Individuals can choose their favorite cause. “There’s something for everyone,” Miller said.

One option is the “Stop the Brain Drain” campaign at local schools. Volunteers will assist youngsters in matching with a book for summer reading and take-home materials for parents.

Anyone 18 years old or older can get involved with multiple projects at Christmas Charities Year Round, “They need some big muscle and strong able-bodied people and a few experts,” Miller said.

At this charity, workers will move fill dirt, break down a concrete slab, paint hand rails, pressure-wash concrete and help with the recycle program by stripping wheels off old and unused bikes. Christmas Charities also needs help in preparing for a yard sale.

An outreach session with Big Brothers Big Sisters is scheduled for June 6. “Come and have a great time helping with the festivities for the ‘BIGS’ (mentors) and ‘LITTLES’ (proteges) who are matched through this great program,” Miller said. Individuals can serve refreshments, play games with the big and little kids and supervise activities.

Days of Action’s numerous projects will end with the free Family Fun Festival and Expo on June 6 from 5 to 6 p.m. the Von Braun Center.

Miller urges residents to register to help with Days of Action by calling United Way at 256-518-8203 or visiting thevolunteercentermc.org.

United Way of Madison County’s office address is 701 Andrew Jackson Way in Huntsville. For more information about United Way, visit MadisonCountyCares.org, Facebook/uwmadisoncounty or Twitter @UWofMadisonCo.