More than 260 volunteers donated their time and talents to support nonprofit agencies across Richmond County during United Way’s 16th Annual Days of Caring.
Volunteers built a greenhouse with raised plant beds, read to children, stocked shelves, cleaned, delivered meals, assisted with building a home, packed backpacks, and more.
Michelle Parrish, executive director of United Way of Richmond County, expressed her gratitude for the volunteers’ hard work and dedication.
“This year we had 16 projects, and for some volunteers, it was their very first time participating,” Parrish shared. “We also extended Days of Caring to six days this year, wrapping up Friday morning. Many of our volunteers have been with us for years — some since we started 16 years ago. We couldn’t have done it without them.”
Days of Caring began as a way to give back to the community around the anniversary of September 11th, encouraging neighbors to come together in service. This year, 261 volunteers contributed 801.5 hours of service, creating a cost savings of $27,884.19 for United Way’s partner agencies.
“I am extremely grateful to the companies that allowed their employees to participate, and to all the community members who gave of themselves to assist,” Parrish said. “We’re already looking forward to our Day of Caring in 2026.”
2025 United Way Campaign: Aiming for $250,000
As Days of Caring wrapped up, United Way of Richmond County launched its 2025 Campaign, setting an ambitious goal of $250,000. Workplace campaigns will play a major role, offering employees a chance to give back while fostering teamwork and raising awareness of local needs.
All funds raised remain in Richmond County unless otherwise directed by the donor, supporting programs that address a wide range of community needs. Partner Agencies include:
Together, these agencies nurture children and youth, strengthen families, meet critical needs, and empower communities. In 2024, they provided 14,916 individual services, serving people 172,565 times. So far in 2025, they have already assisted 6,425 individuals with 66,412 services.
“We continue to see a shift in requests this year, with food resources remaining the most pressing need since 2022,” Parrish said. “Utilities and rent assistance are still in high demand, but the call for food support has surged.”
For more information about United Way of Richmond County or to donate, visit unitedwayrichmondnc.net or mail your support to P.O. Box 153, Rockingham, NC 28380. You may also contact Michelle Parrish at 910-997- 2173.
If you’d like information on starting a workplace campaign or volunteering with United Way of Richmond County, please reach out — we’d love to connect with you.
