BLACKHAWK REGION, Wis. – 333 volunteers came together Wednesday, September 9, for United Way Blackhawk Region’s 2026 Day of Caring, completing 43 projects for nonprofit and community organizations across the region.
Volunteer teams from local businesses and organizations spent the morning painting, cleaning, landscaping, organizing spaces and tackling projects designed to help local nonprofits better serve their communities.
The day began with a breakfast and kickoff program featuring Dr. Dennis Pauli, President and CEO of United Way Blackhawk Region. Pauli shared more about the impact of Day of Caring and officially launched United Way’s fall campaign.'
"Day of Caring is a powerful example of what happens when people come together around a shared commitment to community," said Pauli. "The work accomplished in one day is significant, but equally importan are the relationships built between volunteers, businesses and the organizations working every dya to serve our neighbors."
Bank First was among the organizations whose employees volunteered during this year’s event.
“From painting and cleaning to organizing spaces, they helped create a welcoming environment where local youth can learn, grow, and thrive. We’re grateful for opportunities to support organizations that make a positive impact every day,” Bank First shared following the event.
In addition to mobilizing volunteers throughout the community, the Day of Caring kickoff recognized businesses, organizations and individuals whose generosity, advocacy and service have strengthened the Blackhawk Region.
ABC Supply Co. Inc. received the Pillar of the Community Award, recognizing the company as a cornerstone partner whose investment in the community helps make United Way’s work possible.
Baker Tilly US, LLP and Wells Fargo Advisors received the Peggy & Ebbie Neese Award of Excellence.
Rick Mueller of Jax Custom Printing received the Excellence in Advocacy Award, and Patty Schumacher, retired from BMO Bank, received the Geraldine Hedberg Volunteer of the Year Award.
Additional organizations were recognized through United Way’s Legacy of Caring, Leadership in Giving, Community Commitment and 100% Participation awards. Foundation partners were also acknowledged for their support of United Way and the broader community. These awards and recognitions were featured during the Day of Caring kickoff program.
Day of Caring is United Way Blackhawk Region’s annual day of action, connecting workplace volunteer teams with nonprofit organizations that have projects needing additional hands and resources. The event gives volunteers an opportunity to see firsthand the work taking place throughout the region while helping nonprofit partners accomplish meaningful projects in a single day.
This year’s event also marked the official start of United Way Blackhawk Region’s fall campaign. Through workplace campaigns, individual giving, corporate partnerships, volunteerism and community investment, United Way works to bring people and resources together to address local needs and create opportunities for individuals and families to thrive.
United Way Blackhawk Region serves Rock County, Wisconsin, and northern Winnebago County, Illinois.
For more information about United Way Blackhawk Region, its community impact or ways to get involved, visit LiveUnitedBR.org.
About United Way Blackhawk Region
United Way Blackhawk Region mobilizes the caring power of communities to improve lives throughout Rock County, Wisconsin, and northern Winnebago County, Illinois. By bringing together donors, volunteers, businesses, nonprofit partners and community leaders, United Way works to strengthen the region and create opportunities for individuals and families to thrive.