By Caison Kirkland
caison.kirkland@gaflnews.com

VALDOSTA — The Greater Valdosta United Way (GVUW) has modified its upcoming semiannual Day of Caring to assist with hurricane recovery efforts.

Originally planned as a volunteer day for various community projects, this fall’s event will now be centered on helping those affected by the storm. GVUW has partnered with Second Harvest of South Georgia, a key player in the relief efforts, to support those in need.

The Day of Caring will take place on Friday, Oct. 18, from 7:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Second Harvest’s warehouse, located at 1411 Harbin Circle. Community volunteers will help sort and package food, cleaning supplies, and other essentials for hurricane victims.

The event follows a successful Day of Caring in May, where more than 130 volunteers collaborated to work on 12 projects across the GVUW region, assisting local nonprofits with various tasks. The Day of Caring is an opportunity for volunteers to connect with nonprofits and help meet pressing needs in the community.

The event’s focus on hurricane recovery will be no different in terms of community impact, but the shift in focus is crucial given the devastation left by Hurricane Helene. In a special highlight, United Way Worldwide President and CEO Angela F. Williams and members of her team will be flying in to attend the event, offering support to the local efforts.

“This is a huge deal for our local United Way, and we are happy to have her support our community in this difficult time,” stated Logan Cole, Development/marketing coordinator for GVUW.