Day of Caring brings hundreds of volunteers together across Wayne County

More than 430 participants completed 40 service projects across the Orrville area

Two people in matching shirts stand next to stacked boxes in an office filled with supplies.

More than 430 volunteers completed 40 service projects across Orrville-area communities during the May 6 Day of Caring organized by the Orrville Area United Way and Orrville Area Chamber of Commerce.

Submitted

Published May 8, 2026 - 6:15 a.m.

The Orrville Area United Way and the Orrville Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated another successful Day of Caring May 6 as hundreds of volunteers came together to make an impact across Smithville, Marshallville, Wooster and Orrville.

This year’s event mobilized more than 430 volunteers representing local businesses, nonprofit organizations, schools, civic groups and faith-based communities. Together, volunteers completed 40 service projects benefiting a wide range of organizations, including nonprofits, educational institutions, senior care facilities, churches and other community-serving agencies throughout the region.

Projects ranged from landscaping and outdoor beautification to painting, maintenance work, organizing donations and hands-on improvements that enhanced both the functionality and appearance of community spaces. Many sites saw immediate transformations, while others benefited from essential behind-the-scenes support that helps organizations continue serving those in need.

A continued partnership with Senior Service Day also brought graduating seniors from Orrville High School into the effort. This collaboration provided students with an opportunity to give back alongside local business leaders, mentors and community members.

In addition to the tangible improvements completed throughout the day, Day of Caring continues to strengthen connections between volunteers and the organizations they serve. Many participants gain a deeper understanding of local needs, often leading to ongoing volunteerism, partnerships and support that extends well beyond a single day of service.

“The success of Day of Caring reflects the incredible generosity and commitment of our community,” said James Carpenter, executive director of the Orrville Area United Way. “Seeing more than 430 volunteers come together to complete 40 impactful projects is inspiring and reminds us what can happen when people unite around a common purpose. Events like this not only strengthen our community today but help build a foundation for a stronger future.”

Organizers extended their appreciation to all volunteers, project site coordinators, sponsors and partner organizations who helped make Day of Caring 2026 possible.