A Community Coming Together to Make a Difference
Each year, United Way of Chautauqua County brings together volunteers, businesses, and nonprofit organizations for Day of Caring — a community-wide day of service dedicated to strengthening Chautauqua County.
Through hands-on volunteer projects, individuals and teams support local agencies and schools while building connections that extend far beyond a single day.
Day of Caring is a powerful example of what happens when a community comes together with a shared purpose — to give back, support one another, and create lasting impact.
2026 Day of Caring Info
📅 Friday, August 21
Day of Caring will take place at project sites throughout Chautauqua County, where volunteers choose local organizations to complete meaningful service projects.
Whether participating as an individual, a group, or a workplace team, volunteers play a direct role in supporting the organizations that serve our community every day.
REGISTER TO VOLUNTEER AS PART OF DAY OF CARING
We are still in the process of coordinating with nonprofits and schools, building our schedule of projects. Stay tuned to our social media and this webpage for updates as projects become ready for volunteer registration. Once ready, all sign-ups will be taken through the link below.
To learn more or register as a volunteer → Click here!
How It Works
United Way partners with local nonprofit agencies, schools, and community organizations to identify projects that can benefit from volunteer support.
Volunteers can then register for project sites where they can contribute their time and talents in meaningful ways.
Projects may include:
- Landscaping and outdoor improvements
- Painting and facility enhancements
- Organizing donations and supplies
- Supporting programs and activities
- Assisting with community events
United Way coordinates the experience from start to finish — making it easy for volunteers to get involved and make an impact.
Impact in Action
Day of Caring continues to grow as a community tradition — and its impact is already being felt across Chautauqua County.
During last year's inaugural event:
- 66 volunteers participated
- 12 project sites were completed
- Nearly 300 hours of service were contributed
Projects took place in communities including Dunkirk, Fredonia, and Jamestown, supporting a wide range of nonprofit agencies and schools.
From improving spaces to engaging directly with program participants, each effort helped strengthen the organizations that serve individuals and families throughout the county.
Why It Matters
For more than 100 years, United Way has been a trusted nonprofit and a pillar in Chautauqua County — uniquely positioned to connect individuals, businesses, nonprofits, and government partners.
Day of Caring brings that role to life.
By mobilizing volunteers and aligning community resources, United Way helps:
- Strengthen local nonprofit organizations
- Expand capacity for critical services
- Build connections across sectors
- Foster a culture of volunteerism and engagement
It’s more than a day of service — it’s an investment in the systems that support our community.
Why It Matters
Join United Way’s Day of Caring as a sponsor and help mobilize volunteers to make a difference across Chautauqua County. Engage your employees, build team spirit, and elevate your brand while supporting nonprofits.
Click here to download or 2026 sponsorship form and learn more about the sponsor benefits.