For Immediate Release – October 31, 2025
Contact: Jessica Arneson, Community Engagement Coordinator, 715-421-0390
WISCONSIN RAPIDS, WI – Thanks to 447 volunteers, 103 yards were raked during United Way of South Wood & Adams Counties’ Day of Caring on Saturday, October 25th. Many homeowners who are elderly or disabled fall into the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) population and struggle to afford the cost of leaf removal and unable to do it themselves. United Way of South Wood & Adams Counties steps in by coordinating volunteers to rake these yards, enabling homeowners to care for and remain in their homes without an extra financial burden.
Homeowners and volunteers alike benefited from this fall day.
“Thank you so much. They did a beautiful job, and it was a huge relief to have that done. I wouldn’t have been able to do it myself. The scouts did awesome, and it was nice to chat with them too!” expressed a homeowner.
“We enjoyed talking with the resident while raking. Sometimes I think people just enjoy having someone to talk to. We had a good time-on our way home, we even saw an elderly gentleman raking his lawn so we stopped by and helped him finish it off!” said a volunteer.
“I’m so grateful for the incredible number of volunteers who stepped up to help during this year’s Day of Caring. Raking leaves might not seem like a big task, but for our elderly and disabled neighbors, it means the world. Many of the homeowners we helped shared that health conditions like arthritis, COPD, or cancer make it difficult for them to rake on their own, and many don’t have nearby family or extra funds to hire help. This was my first time organizing this event, and I’m truly in awe of how many people came together to support one another. It’s a powerful reminder that volunteering doesn’t just change lives—it strengthens the heart of our community,” said Community Engagement Coordinator Jessica Arneson.
Thanks To Our Sponsors
United Way thanks this year’s t-shirt sponsors: Cranberry Valley Girl Scouts, Darlene Rause Memorial, Harter’s Fox Valley Disposal, Grand Rapids, Nekoosa, & Port Edwards Lions Clubs, United Way’s 211, VFW Post 2534, Wisconsin Rapids Kiwanis Club, and Wisconsin Rapids Noon Rotary Club.
We also would like to thank this year’s breakfast sponsors: Grand Rapids Lions Club, Kwik Trip, Ocean Spray, Pepsi and Walmart. And a big “thank you” to the Grand Rapids Lions Club for the use of their facilities and providing volunteers.
Volunteers for 2025 Day of Caring