‘Day of Caring’ Begins United Way Campaign

More than 1,000 United Way volunteers in the San Fernando, Santa Clarita and Antelope valleys will repair, paint, clean and fix offices of local charities Saturday, kicking off this year’s United Way fund-raising in the region.

Billed as a “Day of Caring,” the event will gather volunteers representing community groups and 75 corporations who will spend half a day helping local charities with specific needs ranging from painting offices and classrooms to yard cleaning and preparing food baskets for the homeless, said Todd Rosin, media director for the United Way of Greater Los Angeles.

“We fund 252 community charities that serve about 4 million people in Los Angeles County,” Rosin said.

United Way raised $58.1 million in its last drive, which ended in March. Because of the rising community need, the agency hopes to raise more money during this campaign, Rosin said, adding that this year’s target will be made public Saturday.

The “Day of Caring” kickoff sites in this area are the Los Angeles Times Valley Edition, 20000 Prairie St., Chatsworth; Valencia Town Center, 24201 W. Valencia Blvd.; and the Antelope Valley Mall Food Court, Avenue P and 10th Street West, Palmdale.

“It is going to be a day of good volunteer work which everyone will enjoy,” said Ebe Winter, senior campaigner for the Antelope Valley region, who expects about 250 volunteers.

For information, call (213) 630-2199.