Days of Caring kickoff
By Becky Barclay
Published in News on September 14, 2007 2:05 PM
Emily Peacock didn't know why she had been singled out to speak at a community service event. And, like most volunteers, she was humbled by the opportunity.
Mrs. Peacock was the speaker at the 14th annual Days of Caring kickoff this morning on the steps of the courthouse. She is a recipient of the 2006 Wayne County Award for Volunteer Service and the 2006 North Carolina Medallion Award.
This year's Days of Caring is sponsored by United Way of Wayne County and coordinated by Volunteer Wayne/RVSP. It runs through Sept. 22 and is a countywide effort to help those in need.
Mrs. Peacock noted that without the community's support for such events, volunteers would not come forth. She said it's an opportunity for everyone to collectively serve the needs of Wayne County.
Mrs. Peacock volunteers most of her time with children and families, working with the Guardian ad Litem program.
But whatever the cause, volunteers give of their time in many ways -- financially, politically and individually.
"I believe we are called to give back some of what we have received to make our world a better place," Mrs. Peacock said. "My God requires it of me; it's an inner desire. This country was founded on the spirit of volunteerism."
She ended with a quote on her window sill: "You are blessed by God to become a blessing to others."
In his opening remarks, 2007 United Way campaign chairman Jimmie Ford praised all volunteers for the work they do for the residents of Wayne County.
Mayor Al King read the city of Goldsboro's Days of Caring resolution, stating that serious social problems that threaten the future are a big concern here. Days of Caring volunteers strive to alleviate those problems and inspire those who might have lost hope, he added.
He also said that Days of Caring is an opportunity for people to connect with friends, relatives and others while doing projects that benefit our community.
"It's a special time set aside for everyone to join together in a community work day in a place that belongs to all of us and to make a difference," the mayor said.
Wayne County Commission Chairman John Bell read the county's Days of Caring resolution, stating that it's a time to connect with nonprofit organizations to do special projects. It brings together hundreds of volunteers to produce valuable, visible results in Wayne County.
Wrapping up the kickoff was Sherry Archibald with Habitat for Humanity.
"During the next nine days, we have the chance to collectively show this community what we can do with our talents. I challenge you to give of your time and talent to make this an even better place to be."
Providing musical entertainment before the kickoff was the Center Stage Theatre Encore Performers group. Its members were John Stutts, Priscilla Williams, Candy Smith, Sue Nobers and Joan Hackmann. Stutts also sang the national anthem.
Members of the Goldsboro Fire Department Honor Guard posted and retrieved the colors. Members included Ricky Barnes, Julian Whitney, Gigi Eason and Steven Green.
There are several Days of Caring projects this year including a building blitz for Habitat for Humanity, several food and supply drives, pet supply drives and adoptions, Meals on Wheels deliveries and more.
Hundreds of volunteers across the county, along with many civic groups and other organizations and businesses, are expected to participate.
For more information on the Days of Caring, call Barbara Stiles at 735-5151.