Day of Action

Everything you need to know about Day of Action. 

Welcome to United Way of Coastal and Western Connecticut’s Day of Action hub. Whether you’re volunteering or hosting a project, this page has everything you need to get involved.  

Thursday, May 28, 2026  |  Rain Date: Thursday, June 4, 2026 

KEY DETAILS

 

For Volunteers

Join us for a hands-on day of impact! Volunteers will be matched with local nonprofit organizations to complete meaningful service projects across our region.  

What to Expect: 

  • A 3-6 hour service project 
  • Opportunities to work individually or as part of a team 
  • A chance to directly support local nonprofits and community members 

The Process: 

  • Once we have received all of the project submissions, our team will match volunteers to the projects available. 
  • The contact person designated on the registration form will receive information about the project as well as the name of the contact person at the project site to allow for direct communication. 
  • Deadline to register: April 17, 2026 

How to Sign Up: 

Click here for: Volunteer Registration

For Agency Partners: Plan Your Project

We’re excited to partner with you for Day of Action! This is a great opportunity to engage volunteers in meaningful, mission-driven work while advancing your organization’s goals.  

Step 1: Understand the Basics 

  • Projects may be indoor or outdoor 
  • Must be completed within 3-6 hours   
  • Should align with your organization’s mission and needs 
  • Must be appropriate for the number of volunteers requested 

Step 2: Design Your Project 

When planning your project, consider: 

  • Does the project support a clear organizational need and align with your mission? 
  • Can it be completed within 3-6 hours with appropriate tools and materials? 
  • How many volunteers are needed to complete the project safely and effectively? 

Tip: The most successful projects are hands-on, clearly defined, and allow volunteers to see the impact of their work. 

Step 3: Explore Project Ideas 

Volunteers can support your organization in many meaningful ways beyond traditional yardwork.  

Examples include:  

  • Landscaping (planting, mulching, clean-up) 
  • Gardening (raised beds, vegetable or sensory gardens) 
  • Painting (walls, playgrounds, parking lots) 
  • Organizing and revamping spaces 
  • Day with clients (tutoring, hosting storytime, playing games, etc.) 
  • Administrative support (filing, mailings, organizing) 
  • Food packing and distribution 
  • Kit assembly (hygiene, emergency kits) 
  • Event preparation 
  • Pet care projects 

And more! 

Step 4: Submit Your Project 

  • Submit your project proposal for review: Agency Project Form 
  • Projects are approved based on: 
    • Feasibility 
    • Volunteer availability 
    • Alignment with event goals 

Note: Submission does not guarantee selection. 

  • Deadline to Submit Project Ideas: April 17, 2026 
  • Expected Notification Date for Project Approval: May 8, 2026 

Supplies & Logistics 

  • Organizations must provide all necessary supplies 
  • United Way will reimburse up to $200 for supplies (receipts required) 
  • Organizations must provide lunch for volunteers 

DAY OF ACTION FAQS

Yes! Agencies can submit multiple project ideas by completing the ‘Agency Project Form’ for each separate project. However, due to volunteer capacity, not all projects may be selected. 

Fingers crossed this doesn’t happen, but just in case, we have set a rain date for Thursday, June 4, 2026. Please indicate if you are unable to participate in the rain date in the ‘Agency Project Form’. We also encourage planning flexible or indoor-friendly options if possible. 

Contact Ebony Jeffress, at ebony.jeffress@unitedwaycwc.org to learn more! 

FOR MORE INFORMATION 

If you have questions regarding Agency Partner Projects, please contact: Victoria Scofield, victoria.scofield@unitedwaycwc.org 

If you have questions regarding how to volunteer or sponsor Day of Action, please contact: Ebony Jeffress, ebony.jeffress@unitedwaycwc.org