WORKERS PLANT FLOWERS FOR DAYS OF CARING EVENT

Volunteers with Southwestern Bell Telephone took a challenge to roll up their sleeves and dig into the spirit of volunteerism during the fourth annual Days of Caring sponsored by the Area Wide United Way.

The United Way has set aside this week, which is National Volunteer Week, and May 11 to 15, which is the local Random Acts of Kindness Week, to focus on volunteerism in the community.

Days of Caring is an opportunity for area employers to strengthen employee morale and support community service by encouraging employees to participate, said Nancy Jernigan, executive director of the Area Wide United Way.

Southwestern Bell Telephone volunteers Monday planted flowers for the American Red Cross.

"This is an excellent opportunity for individuals to see their contributions at work in agencies supported by the United Way," Jernigan said.

In addition to service projects, employee groups may also conduct drives to collect items needed by area organizations.

For example, the Cape Senior Center needs prizes to be used for bingo. The Civic Center needs school supplies and games for its after-school program. The Jackson Senior Center needs canned goods for its food pantry.

In addition to Days of Caring, the United Way plans to recognize its local "unsung heroes" at the annual volunteer recognition program Wednesday. The event will be at noon at the Drury Lodge. Outstanding youth, adult and senior volunteer awards will be given, and an outstanding volunteer organization will be recognized.

"The awards honor those individuals and groups which exemplify the role of the volunteer and who make a significant positive impact on the lives of others in Southeast Missouri," Jernigan said.

Nominees for the youth award are Dusty McDowell, Nick Roberts, Kristen Tallent, Brandon Wendel and Chris Wise.

Nominees for the adults award are Beth Schmucker, Mike Simmons, Annette Trout and Lloyd Williams.

Nominees for the senior award are Ilena Aslin, Ginny Cates, Melvin Gateley, Loreen Gladish, Betty Heuring, Alberta Loos, Verna Dell Petzoldt, Fran Rediger and Homer Yount.

Nominees for the volunteer organization are Cape County Family and Community Education-Cape County Extension Council, Renaissance of Cape Girardeau Central High School, the Retired Senior Volunteer Program of Scott and Cape Girardeau counties, and the Evening Lions Club.