United Way of Knox County Hosts First Annual Day of Caring: A Day of Service and Community Building

The Morning Thing shares exciting news from the United Way of Knox County!

United Way of Knox County proudly celebrated its first annual Day of Caring, a remarkable day of community service and volunteerism that took place on Friday, September 13, 2024. This inaugural event brought together individuals and business volunteers from a wide range of organizations, including Kokosing Construction, Knox Community Hospital, Park National Bank, Hospice of the Western Reserve, Knox Public Health, the Winter Sanctuary, Hope Now Furniture Bank, Interchurch, Fredericktown Fire Department, and the American Red Cross.

Volunteers participated in a variety of impactful projects across Knox County, demonstrating the power of collaboration and the collective commitment to making a difference in the community.

Key activities included:

  • Free smoke alarm installation in homes across Fredericktown, in partnership with the American Red Cross and Fredericktown Fire Department.
  • Home construction alongside Habitat for Humanity to support families in need of affordable housing.
  • Renovation and construction work at Interchurch in Centerburg, providing much-needed improvements to their facility.
  • Service projects at local community organizations, including Salvation Army, Knox County Head Start, and The Freedom Center.

United Way is deeply grateful for the tireless efforts of the many volunteers who contributed their time and energy to make the Day of Caring a success. Their dedication is a testament to the strength of Knox County’s spirit of giving and service.

“We are thrilled with the outpouring of support for our first Day of Caring,” said United Way of Knox County Program Director Halle Krajenski. “The passion and enthusiasm of our volunteers made a tremendous impact in just one day, and we are excited to see how this event will continue to grow and strengthen our community in the years to come.”

The Day of Caring also served as an inspiring showcase of the community programs and initiatives made possible by generous United Way donations. Each project exemplified the meaningful, lasting impact that United Way-supported efforts have on the lives of Knox County residents.

As United Way kicks off their annual Charitable Campaign, Executive Director Katie Ellis shared her thoughts: “This day is a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when we come together for a common cause. The projects completed today reflect the heart of our mission—to create real, lasting change. As we launch this year’s campaign, we are grateful for the volunteers, partner organizations, and donors who make it all possible. Together, we can continue building a network of social support for everyone in Knox County.”

For more information about United Way of Knox County and how you can get involved, visit www.uwayknox.org or contact liveunited@uwayknox.org.

Photos courtesy of Terry Thurston and United Way of Knox County

Today is National Family and Community Day. How will you celebrate?

Days Of The Year.com tells us that Family and Community Day is a special time to bring families and communities closer together. This day emphasizes the importance of spending quality time with loved ones, building strong family bonds, and fostering community spirit.

It serves as a reminder to take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and focus on the people who matter most to us​.

Community involvement strengthens the sense of belonging and pride, encouraging people to contribute positively to their surroundings.

Through shared activities and interactions, Family and Community Day aims to enhance mutual understanding and respect among community members​.

Moreover, Family and Community Day offers a chance to engage in activities that build memories and reinforce connections.

Click HERE to read more about the history of this special days and ways to celebrate.

Click HERE for 7 Ways To Get Your Family Involved In Your Local Community.

The following activities are perfect ways to get the whole family invested in your community. For more examples for each activity, read the full article HERE.

1. Volunteer

2. Help the Neighbors

3. Join a Community Recreation Center

4. Start a Community Garden

5. Make it Virtual

6. Thank Community Helpers

7. Send Care Packages

The Mount Vernon Salvation Army celebrates 130 years of service in Mount Vernon

The Morning Thing shined a spotlight on the Mount Vernon Salvation Army to celebrate their 130th Anniversary.
We talked with Captain Christine Moretz about how the Salvation Army serves our community.
Click HERE to hear their conversation.

We also talked with Austin Swallow and Jerry Scott, Salvation Army Board Members.
We talked about the 130th anniversary of the ministry, the celebration dinner and the impact that the Army has had in Mount Vernon. They both shared touching stories of how they have personally seen the Salvation Army’s work impact local families.

Click HERE to hear our conversation with Austin Swallow.

Click HERE to hear our conversation with Jerry Scott.

Find out more about the Mount Vernon Salvation Army at https://neo.salvationarmy.org/northeastohio/mount_vernon

If you would like to volunteer, please call (740) 392-8716.

Starting Point prepares for the annual WALK this week

starting-point

WNZR is proud to partner with Starting Point of Knox County. Their annual WALK fundraiser is coming up this Saturday.

WNZR Office Manager, Wesley Boston talked with Starting Point’s Marketing Director, Lauren Kuhn about this important event. Click HERE to hear their conversation.

Tune in to The Morning Thing all this week and hear more conversations with Starting Point staff.
Click HERE to find out more about the WALK this Saturday.
Call 740-392-9090 to support WNZR’s Team. Our goal is $500!

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