News in Brief: Wahoo Volunteers Shine Despite Rainy Conditions

Hundreds of University of Virginia employees headed to area nonprofits, schools and churches to lend a hand as part of the 33rd annual United Way Laurence E. Richardson Day of Caring.

Despite a week of heavy rainfall, Wahoo volunteers representing 68 teams from across the University and UVA Health pitched in to paint, landscape and clean. UVA President Jim Ryan and his team battled the elements and the overgrowth Wednesday to clear trails in the Rivanna Trail system. 

“Day of Caring is about leadership, civic responsibility and giving back,” Ravi Respeto, CEO and president of the United Way of Greater Charlottesville, said. “The University of Virginia has been supporting our community through Day of Caring for decades. Our impact would not be the same without their culture of volunteerism and sponsorship support.” 

The UVA contingent was among almost 1,900 volunteers registered for this year’s event, tackling 115 projects. United Way estimates the value of the volunteer service to be $300,000.

UVA consistently fields one of the largest volunteer groups, aligning with Ryan’s vision for the University to be a good neighbor.