By Chrissie Mouton | Sept. 21, 2026
Nearly 300 volunteers came together September 18 for United Way of Orange County’s annual Day of Caring, completing service projects designed to support nonprofit organizations and community partners throughout Orange County.
This year’s event brought together 38 volunteer teams serving 20 nonprofit agencies and community organizations across the county. Volunteers from local businesses, civic organizations, and the community donated their time and talents to projects that help local nonprofits maintain and improve the spaces and resources they rely on to serve residents.
Projects included landscaping, painting, facility improvements, organizing, and other hands-on work. These projects give nonprofit organizations an opportunity to address needs that can be difficult to accomplish within limited budgets and staffing resources.
“Nonprofits are always working to make limited resources go as far as possible,” said Maureen McAllister, President and CEO of United Way of Orange County. “These grants help cover some of the practical needs that come with Day of Caring projects, allowing our nonprofit partners to stretch their budgets a little further and keep more of their resources focused on the people they serve.”
Supporting Day of Caring Projects
In addition to the volunteer support provided during Day of Caring, United Way of Orange County awarded grants through its Day of Caring Grant Program to help participating Partner Agencies purchase materials and supplies needed for their approved projects.
This year’s grant recipients included:
- Samaritan Counseling & Wellness Center — $250
- Spindletop Center — $500
- Stable-Spirit — $500
The grants provide an additional resource for participating organizations, helping turn project plans into completed improvements that strengthen their facilities and support the services they provide to the community.
Day of Caring is one of United Way of Orange County’s signature volunteer initiatives, connecting individuals and teams with opportunities to give back while helping local nonprofit organizations accomplish projects that enhance their ability to serve Orange County residents.
The event reflects what can happen when businesses, civic organizations, volunteers, and nonprofits come together around a shared commitment to strengthening the community.
United Way of Orange County extends its appreciation to the nearly 300 volunteers, participating organizations, project site coordinators, sponsors, and everyone who contributed their time and resources to this year’s Day of Caring.
Together, their commitment to service is helping strengthen Orange County and the organizations working every day to make a difference in the lives of local residents.