A Day In the Life

When I talk about volunteerism and giving back to our community, I usually highlight projects that participants from our different programs are involved in.  Last week, staff -- as well as participants -- from across the agency joined the United Way for its annual Day of Caring.

Pictured to the left our members of our Residential Services team -- from left, Lenny Bills, Ray Lincoln, Karen Gardener, and Tammy Erick.  They -- along with other members of the residential services department -- gave their time and energy to cleaning and disinfecting items at the Canandaigua Early Childhood Center at the V.A. Hospital.  Their spirit of giving back was also matched by the agency's management team, which consists of all program directors.  They took the trip out to Cummings Nature Center to tidy up some of the trails.  Overall, the United Way of Ontario County estimates that more than 500 local residents turned out for this year's event -- the most they've ever had.  And, the agency is proud to say that several of those volunteers were from Ontario ARC.

We don't just encourage participants and residents to volunteer -- staff from all departments across this great organization lead by example and give back to their local communities all the time.  And, they do it of their own accord.  Its a testament to the type of people we have working here at the agency. 

On a side note:  The United Way funds our Recreation Program, which offers fun athletic and entertainment opportunities to children and adults with developmental disabilities.

Thanks to Lisa Philipson and Barb Davis for the photos!!!