On Friday, May 17, more than 300 Calhoun County high school students will set a powerful example of making a difference through volunteerism

Students from 10 area schools and organizations will take part in the 11th annual Youth Day of Caring. Volunteer groups, ranging in size from five to 75 high schoolers, will spend the day on a variety of projects benefitting nonprofit agencies and improving community conditions. Youth Day of Caring is coordinated by United Way of the Battle Creek and Kalamazoo Region (UWBCKR) and participating schools.

“It’s inspiring to see students show how much they care for our community by taking action to make it better,” said Jamie Rugg, Director of Engagement for UWBCKR.

Student volunteers will gather at Full Blast on Friday morning, then depart in teams to tackle 18 projects across the community. Projects include sorting food and clothing donations, painting, creating community murals, and spending quality time with seniors and memory care patients. After the projects are completed, volunteers will return to Full Blast to share their experiences with each other.

One of the key community roles of United Way is bringing together people of all ages to volunteer and make a meaningful, measurable impact. Rugg said she hopes Youth Day of Caring is a first step in a lifetime of volunteerism for participants.