The spirit of volunteerism was shining bright at Porter County Aging and Community Services during United Way’s annual Day of Caring event. The weekend brings together the community and not-for-profits for a day of hard work and creating connections.
Volunteers from Alice’s House painted doors and frames inside the building and the Turner family cleared weeds on the property and also freshened up the parking lot’s stripes.
Alice’s House Director Jennie Kreske understands how not-for-profits benefit from volunteers. Alice’s House is a not-for-profit that offers safe, affordable housing to women and their young children as the women work to recover from drug and/or alcohol addiction. Alice’s introduces or enhances a 12-step recovery program by developing a personal plan.
“We wanted to give back to the community as they always give to us,” Kreske said. “Day of Caring volunteers have been here at our organization in the past.”
Christine Turner said her family has been part of the Day of Caring for the past eight years and it is an opportunity to be involved in the community and work together. Ken and Christine have four children who range in age from 8 to 20.
“We have been blessed with four healthy, happy children and we feel that it is important for them to be able to help out others less fortunate. We also believe that every little bit helps, and when the kids see what a family of six can accomplish, hopefully they will feel that they can accomplish anything in life also,” Christine said.
“We really enjoy working together as a family. It is not very often that we can get all of us together for a few hours, so being able to work on a community project as one is a great feeling. Each year they look forward to the list of projects to come out, so they can pick the one that means the most to them.”
PCACS Executive Director Bruce Lindner said the Day of Caring projects leave a lasting mark on the organization.
“Not only do we see the benefits around us in new paint and a fresher property, but we also strengthen our connection to the community and celebrate volunteerism in Porter County,” he said.
PCACS’ mission is to extend a helping hand to seniors, those who are disabled and low-income residents by providing services to improve their quality of life, including transportation, nutrition programs, energy assistance and activity centers.
Caption: The Turners have been Day of Caring volunteers for the past eight years. This year, they assisted Porter County Aging and Community Services with outdoor projects. From left are Alec, Ken, Chris and Sarah Turner and Olivia Patterson and in front is Julia Turner.