Community Volunteers LIVE UNITED to Make a Difference

Partnering with local community groups, Heart of Florida United Way (HFUW) recently hosted a volunteer project to spruce up the home of Ruby B. Johnson, a 91-year-old Parramore resident known as "Mother" for her lifelong dedication to helping local children and others.

Coordinated by the United Way Volunteer Resource Center (VRC), the project included painting, landscaping and home repairs. Work was completed by more than 70 volunteers from The Gathering, a local mentoring organization that helps young men make positive life choices, and other community groups.

Additional partners included the City of Orlando's Keep Orlando Beautiful, the Orlando Police Department Neighborhood Watch Unit, Behr Paint, Duke Construction, Tradebank and Yellow Dog Construction.

"I feel blessed that so many people came together to help," said Johnson. "I've lived on this block for a long time and have seen much change. I'm grateful that United Way and The Gathering are helping bring my community together."

"Strong support for the project, held in conjunction with United Way of America's national Day of Action, reflects HFUW's commitment to increasing volunteerism," said Lorri Highet, United Way VRC Director. It also supports one of United Way's focus areas, which is seeking new solutions for preventing crime, particularly youth crime.

Over the past year, businesses and groups of all size have called on the VRC to help plan meaningful projects that serve people in need, boost team morale and provide great opportunities for giving back.

If your business or organization would like to plan a volunteer project, contact Lorri Highet, United Way VRC Director, at (407) 849-2373, or e-mail Lorri.Highet@hfuw.org.