United Way of the Greater Capital Region is Calling for Volunteers for its 518 Day, the Single Largest Day of Community Impact in the Capital Region

Over 65 volunteer opportunities with 29 local agencies and many other ways to make an Impact in the 518 on Tuesday, May 18

Albany, NY -- United Way of the Greater Capital Region (UWGCR) is calling for volunteers for its annual 518 Day, the single largest day of community impact in the Capital Region on May 18, a play on the region’s area code.

With 65 socially distant and remote volunteer opportunities supporting 29 community agencies across the Capital Region there is a way for everyone to get involved. Local companies, families and individuals can get involved on 518 Day by signing up for a service project at www.unitedtovolunteer.org or additional opportunities include: 

• “Stuff the CDTA Bus” Health & Hygiene Drive with Women United; donations will be collected to fill a CDTA bus with household items and toiletries to be donated to the U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants 
   
• Virtual 5k Walk/Run sponsored by Tri City Rentals to benefit UWGCR
   
• Random Acts of Kindness BINGO Card
   
• Community Celebration in partnership with the Tri-City ValleyCats at Joe Bruno Stadium 

“We started 518 Day three years ago with a small beautification project in the City of Albany and it’s really expanded and grown into a tremendous regional day of community service and celebration of the Capital Region. We’re thrilled to have a record number of ways to get involved this year,” said Peter Gannon, President & CEO at United Way of the Greater Capital Region. 

“518 Day exemplifies the spirit of United Way in that when we all contribute, even when we think it may be small, our combined efforts make a significant impact to help others and strengthen our communities,” said Dr. Roger Ramsammy, President at Hudson Valley Community College and UWGCR Board Member. “Getting involved on 518 Day is an excellent way to give back and celebrate the unity and resilience of our region.”  

“This year, more than ever, we realize how important it is to take care of each other and work together to make our community a better place,” said Matt Callahan, General Manager at the Tri-City ValleyCats. “We’re proud of our longstanding partnership with United Way and looking forward to celebrating 518 Day at the stadium in a few weeks.” 

“Volunteerism is the bedrock of any vibrant and healthy community. There is no better way to celebrate 518 Day than to participate in one of the wonderful volunteer opportunities,” said Ellen Sax, Vice President, Community Engagement at MVP Health Care. “At MVP Health Care creating healthy communities is our vision, and we are very pleased to partner with United Way and all the organizations involved with 518 Day to support and enhance our community.”

“We’re always looking for ways to engage with our community and we’re so pleased to partner with United Way on 518 Day once again this year for the Stuff the CDTA Bus Drive,” said Carm Basile, CEO at CDTA and UWGCR Board Chair. “Making a donation to this year’s Health & Hygiene Drive is a safe and meaningful way to give back and support our neighbors in need.” 

“518 Day is an outstanding way to Live United and serve others. The work that is done by community organizations cannot be done just by us – it’s all about the support of the community,” said Rifat Filkins, Executive Director, Refugee and Immigrant Support Services of Emmaus. “This is RISSE’s first volunteer project during these very difficult times and I can’t wait to get out and connect with the volunteers.”

Sponsors of 518 Day are American National, CDTA, MVP Health Care, Northwestern Mutual, Sunmark Charitable Community Foundation, Tri City Rentals, the Tri-City ValletCats and UA Local 7 Plumbers & Steamfitters. 

The first 500 volunteers to sign up will receive a 518 Day t-shirt. More information at www.unitedwaygcr.org/518Day