September 20, 2023 – The annual United Way Laurence E. Richardson Day of Caring happens every September when teams of people volunteer to complete special projects at regional nonprofits, schools, and faith-based organizations. The first Day of Caring took place in 1992 and began with only 50 volunteers. The United Way of Greater Charlottesville services surrounding counties including Charlottesville, Albemarle, Fluvanna, Louisa, Nelson, and Greene. This year’s impact is estimated to include over 115 projects, over 1,700 volunteers, over 7,500 hours of service, and more than a $250,00 value back to the community.
This year, the UVA Center for Diabetes Technology participated at the Botanical Garden of the Piedmont. The CDT volunteers joined more than 50 others to tackle projects at the Garden. Today, they helped pick up sticks, mulch paths, and remove invasive plant species. Some of the species that affect the Garden are the Japanese Honeysuckle, Japanese Stiltgrass, Chinese Privet, and Asiatic Bittersweet. Removing these species allows native species the opportunity to grow and flourish.
Our day started off at the Day of Caring Kickoff Breakfast hosted at the John Paul Jones Arena. Where we celebrated community service and fueled up for the day with breakfast and coffee. They also announced the 2023 Caring for Community Honorees and the Volunteer of the Year Honoree. UVA President, Jim Ryan, joined us at the Botanical Garden this morning. He spoke with Jill Trischman-Marks, Executive Director of the Botanical Garden of the Piedmont, to learn about their mission, values, and how the Garden is a public place inclusive to all that promotes human well-being.
By: Madison Maloney (mgm3t@virginia.edu)