CHARLESTON - United Way of Central WV will host the 7th annual DAY OF CARING on Wednesday, September 12, 2012 by setting new records. This year there are more than 600 volunteers and 54 project sites; the most ever recorded for the annual volunteer day which will benefit non-profits in Kanawha, Putnam, Clay and Boone Counties. Day of Caring is a call for people from the community and businesses to come together to create positive change in the lives of children, families and seniors. This event promotes the value of volunteerism and demonstrates the impact of neighbors helping neighbors. Day of Caring also serves as the official kick-off of the United Way community fund raising campaign for 2012-2013.

The day will begin at 10:00 a.m. with a kick-off rally and brunch at the Charleston Civic Center featuring keynote speaker Carl Lee III, former Marshall University and Minnesota Vikings football star and former coach of the West Virginia State Yellow Jackets. Immediately following, teams will work through the afternoon on various community projects.

Among the 54 project sites are,:

• Madison Baptist Church Food Pantry: Boone Memorial Hospital and BB&T in Madison are organizing a food drive at their respective locations to benefit the pantry. Local citizens are encouraged to participate.

Day of Caring gives volunteers a chance to see firsthand the difference being made by social service agencies throughout the area. We are thrilled to have a record number of volunteers and projects and applaud the gift of time to the community and the corporate citizenship of the companies and organizations they represent”, said John Ballengee, United Way President.

About the United Way of Central West Virginia:

United Way is a volunteer-led, volunteer-driven organization representing Boone, Clay, Logan, Kanawha and Putnam counties. From the board of directors to fund-raising volunteers and the others who lend a hand each year, volunteer leaders ensure United Way continues to make an impact on the issues that matter most. United Way of Central West Virginia is dedicated to making sure children and youth achieve their potential through access to quality educational programs; promoting financial stability and independence; improving people’s health. By encouraging all people in central West Virginia to give, advocate or volunteer, United Way wants to show the power of “living united”. For more information, visit www.unitedwaycwv.org or call 304.340.3500.