This year marks the 30th anniversary of the United Way of Ashland County Kay Conrad Day of Caring.
Kay Conrad’s visionary spirit continues to make an impact, even three decades after the event’s inception. Initially conceived as a general cleanup and repair day for partner agencies and nonprofits in Ashland County, Kay recognized the need to support senior citizens in preparing their homes for winter and fostering a sense of connection and care. Now in its 30th year, the event continues to grow and expand, with Kay’s legacy felt by many on this important day.
Teams are assigned to multiple homes in Ashland County, performing yard work, exterior cleaning, and small exterior jobs. This volunteer day addresses the needs of Ashland County residents who are unable to complete necessary yard work and winterizing tasks.
Referrals for the program come primarily through United Way Partner Agencies such as the Ashland County Council on Aging and Appleseed Mental Health. The United Way of Ashland County matches home requests with volunteer teams to provide the requested services. This year’s t-shirts are green to honor the 30th anniversary.
Volunteer teams this year include local businesses, partner agencies, clubs, and residents.
“We are thrilled about our 2024 Day of Caring. This year, we have worked incredibly hard to ensure a meaningful event for our residents,” said Stacy Schiemann, Executive Director of United Way of Ashland County.
“This is our biggest year ever, with 325 volunteers forming 32 teams to make a difference at 115 homes across Ashland County. This is an amazing opportunity for our community to come together and make a significant impact in a concentrated period of time. Ashland County has amazing businesses that have made volunteerism a part of their work culture. These businesses not only encourage their staff to participate but have also sponsored entire teams for the day to make a difference in Ashland County,” Schiemann said.
All areas of the county will be reached, with teams located in Ashland, West Salem, Loudonville, Perrysville, and Greenwich.
We would like to thank the following sponsors for making this important day a success: Volunteer Lunch Sponsors: Critchfield, Bill Harris Auto Center and the Chevy Network, First Energy, Resident Lunch Sponsors: Whitcomb & Hess, Ashland University, BCU Electric, Supply Sponsors: A&M Fire, Modern Woodmen, Charles River, Kingston of Ashland, Park Street Brethren Church, Comfort Control, Lighthouse Wealth Management, Atlas Bolt. Many other businesses also sponsored the t-shirts for the event.
Thank you to everyone who makes this special day possible.