Day of Caring

Every year, United Way celebrates volunteerism in Saskatoon and area by match-making community doers with community need through a Day of Caring. This spring, groups of volunteers are providing labour, expertise and professional services to community-based organizations throughout our community. By working together, we can scale our positive impact and help everyone in our community reach their full potential.

Here’s a recap of what’s happened so far this year…

The Spring Client Party at SaskAbilities is a celebration eagerly anticipated by clients and staff alike. Held indoors in spacious day programming areas and, weather permitting, outdoors in the inviting courtyard, it marks the beginning of summer. This year, volunteers from BHP treated clients to a lively dance, movie screening, engaging games and a fun Hawaiian themed picnic. Dedicated volunteers ensured everyone’s enjoyment, serving food, mingling with clients, and fostering a sense of inclusion. Clients were able to connect with new community members and revel in the festivities, enriching the Spring Client Party experience.

Volunteers from Nutrien partnered with Quint Development Corporation for their Day of Caring, planting a garden, painting fences, and hosting a community BBQ. The garden introduced the Three Sisters Philosophy—corn, beans, and squash—which nourish both people and the earth. This gardening initiative drew upon centuries of Indigenous agricultural traditions and expertise. The goal was to create a welcoming space where tenants and staff could work together to learn about culture and gardening, while also addressing food insecurity.

Volunteers from PCL Construction and Nordic Fencing joined forces with the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) for their Day of Caring project. This initiative aimed to create a boundary around CMHA’s parking lot to ensure safe, effective, and free parking for their staff, clients, and community. By constructing this boundary, CMHA strives to make accessing services barrier and stress-free, promoting mental well-being and reducing potential stressors related to parking.

Volunteers from MLT Aikins partnered with Str8Up for a community project aimed at providing a peaceful outdoor environment for members to gather and enjoy. The project focuses on incorporating traditional teachings and plants, honoring a beloved member and mentor who passed unexpectedly. Beyond providing a serene space, the initiative also aims to nurture the spirits of members and staff, offering valuable life skills and nutrition through plant harvesting. This collaborative effort not only benefits the organization but also enriches the surrounding community, fostering a sense of unity and support.

Volunteers from United Way Saskatoon & Area partnered with Prairie Harm Reduction for their Day of Caring project, giving a fresh coat of paint to the halls of the Visitor Suites, creating a safe space for families to connect and have visitation together. These spaces also provide families with access to additional support and programs. The volunteers’ efforts have helped make the space brighter and more welcoming, aligning with Prairie Harm Reduction’s commitment to maintaining a clean and safe environment for everyone utilizing their family services suites.

The Women IN Nutrien are contributing to their unique Day of Caring project with a special initiative. This endeavor involves distributing professional clothing collected by the Women IN Nutrien to various agencies in the city. By providing professional attire, they aim to empower individuals and support their journey towards success and self-sufficiency. Donations were delivered to Elizabeth Fry Society of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon Interval House, Family Service Saskatoon, and Crocus Co-operative.

Saskatoon & District Labour Council hosted the Day(s) of Caring Pancake Breakfast to celebrate and recognize the projects that had taken place and those yet to occur. This event was a time for networking, socializing with like-minded individuals and organizations, and enjoying a delicious breakfast. The pancake breakfast brings together community members, volunteers, and organizations to share their experiences, foster connections, and reinforce their commitment to community service and support.

Saskatchewan Blue Cross partnered with Wanuskewin for their Day of Caring project, focusing on the Adopt a Patch Program. This initiative offered opportunities for volunteers to analyze native prairie grasslands and native plant species of cultural and historic value, and weed out the rest. Volunteers connected with the land, environment and each other.

Thank you to our sponsor