Some days feel different. You walk into a room, see the energy in the air, and know something meaningful is about to happen. For 26 years, Day of Caring has been that kind of day.
On Friday, June 13, more than 150 volunteers from across Northumberland County gathered for one purpose: to show up for their neighbours. From the moment breakfast was served by the Cobourg Lions Club to the final team arriving back with dirt on their boots and smiles on their faces, the day was full of generosity, teamwork, and care.
This year, 25 sites across Cobourg, Port Hope, and surrounding areas received support — from seniors needing help with outdoor upkeep to group homes like Karis Residences, retirement homes supporting Alzheimer’s patients, and even the local donkey sanctuary, Primrose. For those who give and volunteer, Day of Caring is an invitation to connect. For those on the receiving end, it’s a moment of dignity, relief, and the comforting reminder that they are not alone.
“As Mayor, I couldn’t be prouder of the spirit of generosity and solidarity that defines our town,” said Cobourg Mayor Lucas Cleveland, who joined us for breakfast and opening remarks. “You are showing up not just to serve — but to care. That care is what strengthens our communities and builds a brighter, more inclusive future for everyone.”
Our Executive Director, Alicia Vandine, welcomed volunteers, sponsors, and municipal councillors at the morning kickoff. Now in her second year overseeing Day of Caring, Alicia reflects on the event as a reflection of what United Way stands for — compassion, community, and action.
“This is the United Way way: we show up where the gaps are. We partner with people who care. And we create moments — like Day of Caring — that remind us what it means to belong to a community. Whether it’s seniors aging in place, families trying to stay afloat, or young people building their futures, our work is rooted in the belief that everyone deserves support. That’s what defines us — and that’s where we’re going.”
This year’s event also benefited from the warmth and drive of Darlene Robertson, our Fund and Community Development Coordinator, who helped strengthen connections with local businesses and volunteers alike. Darlene brings a gift for collaboration and a commitment to creating win-win relationships — ones that support both the visibility of local companies and the deep, ongoing needs of our community. Her insight into the realities of our aging population has helped shine a light on the growing number of seniors who simply can’t manage the costs — or physical demands — of maintaining their homes.
We’re incredibly grateful to the Day of Caring Planning Committee, whose dedication and attention to detail bring this event to life:
Peter Culzo, Carolyn Culzo, Cathy Klein, Lori Gray, Erin Sheppard, Kathy Krakenberg, Anthony Dew, Emma Bucking, Toni Galea, Ariana VanLaren, Maria Modica, Deborah Northwood Tink, Quinn Savoy, Chrystal Bambridge, and Nick Hunter.
And of course, this day would not be possible without the support of our generous 2024 Day of Caring sponsors:
- Cameco Ontario
- SABIC
- Akzo Nobel
- Arclin
- CPS Wood Products
- CPK Interior Products
- Home Hardware (Cobourg, Port Hope, Newcastle)
- Town of Cobourg
- Lakefront Utilities
- Lakeport Power Ltd
- Lions Club of Cobourg
- Kelly’s Excavating
- My Broadcasting
- Stalwood Homes
- PJ’s Custom Outfitting (volunteer shirts)
- Black Bottom Painting
Why Your Donations Matter
At the heart of Day of Caring is something simple and powerful: care. And that care is made possible through the generosity of donors.
Your donation doesn’t just buy paint or mulch. It keeps seniors housed. It helps families stay one step ahead of crisis. It supports youth at every stage of their journey. And it gives our nonprofit and service partners the helping hands they need to keep going.
This is the United Way way: we listen, we act, and we invite you to join us in building a community that doesn’t look away — but leans in.
Because when we care together, we create lasting change.
Day of Caring Committee 2025
