Video: ‘Day Of Caring’ Attracts Hundreds Who Lend Helping Hands

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TUPELO, MISS. (WCBI) – It’s the first time Corey Hodges has visited Faith Haven, and he has cleaning duty.

Corey is part of a team of more than 20 Toyota employees who have volunteered to take part in “A Day of Caring.”

“Today is a workday for me, but anything I can do to help I will do it, I believe in helping, always have. It’s one of my job duties when I was at home growing up, always had duties as far as cleaning up,” Hodges said.

On this Day of Caring, 25 teams tackled projects throughout a seven county area. It allows volunteers to help agencies that receive funding from the United Way. The extra hands are a blessing to staffers at Faith Haven.

“We are glad for volunteers to come in because not only do they help us with many projects but they get to find out what we’re all about, get to find out about our program how we’re helping children who have been abused, abandoned and neglected,” said Faith Haven Executive Director Kathryn McKee.

It was also a chance for Toyota to make a generous contribution to the non profit organization.

A short time later, Toyota’s Vice President of Administration was handing out two more oversized checks at the Boys and Girls Club.

“It’s a core global value of Toyota to really give back wherever we do business and we like to encourage our members to be involved in volunteerism,” said Doug Formby, of TMMMS.

Team member Bonnie Pittman was eager to lend a helping hand.

“I do a lot of community volunteering I like helping the community and the fellowship , and I work for a company that will allow us to do it,” Pittman said.

Some projects called for volunteers who didn’t mind doubling as delivery drivers.

“I’ve been interested in meals on wheels for years, finally getting to start out with that. I believe God calls us to serve others, and help in that way, I’m pleased to be able to do it today,” said Betsy Parrott.

Whether it’s a global corporation, or a local business, United Way officials point out it takes everyone working together to make outreaches like the Day of Caring a success and also to bring hope and encouragement to those less fortunate.