Hailey
United Way of the Flint Hills once again showed its commitment to community support by hosting the annual Day of Caring in Emporia, Kansas.
Held on September 24, this special event united volunteers, local students, and businesses to help non-profit organizations that often face challenges due to lack of funding, time, or staff.
The focus was simple but powerful—give a helping hand to those who serve the community every day.
What Is the Day of Caring?
The Day of Caring is a yearly event where local people join hands with non-profit groups to complete projects that would otherwise remain unfinished.
Many of these organizations have big plans but limited resources. By working with United Way, they get the volunteers, supplies, and support they need.
This year, the event provided help to several organizations, including:
- Camp Alexander
- Bloom House
- Camp Double E
- Emporia Senior Center
- Southwick House
- The Salvation Army
- SOS Children’s Center
Support from United Way and Evergy
Daphne Reed Mertens, Executive Director of United Way of the Flint Hills, explained the importance of the program:
“It is an opportunity for non-profits to have some extra hands and money.”
One of the biggest partners was Evergy, a local energy company. Evergy provided funding so these groups could buy necessary supplies. Along with money, Evergy employees also volunteered their time, proving that businesses can play a major role in community improvement.
Volunteers Who Made a Difference
The event was powered by the energy of young people. More than 60 students from Emporia State University (ESU) and Flint Hills Technical College (FHTC) came forward to volunteer. On top of that, 12 Evergy employees worked directly at The Salvation Army to support their ongoing programs.
Mertens praised the volunteers, especially Evergy, for stepping in whenever non-profits need extra help. She noted that this teamwork is what keeps Emporia strong.
Why Student Involvement Matters
For college students, the Day of Caring was not just about volunteering—it was about building connections. By working alongside community members, they learned the value of teamwork, responsibility, and service.
Mertens explained:
“It is a great way to collaborate with ESU and FHTC, who are always great partners. We love to see the students out engaging within our community.”
This experience gave students a real chance to give back, while also making them feel more connected to the city they live and study in.
Simple Overview Table
Here’s a quick look at the main contributions during the Day of Caring 2025:
| Group/Partner | Contribution | Beneficiaries |
|---|---|---|
| United Way of Flint Hills | Organized and led the event | Local non-profits |
| Evergy | Provided funding & 12 volunteers | The Salvation Army & other groups |
| Emporia State University | 60+ student volunteers | Multiple community projects |
| Flint Hills Technical College | Student volunteers | Local non-profits in Emporia |
Impact on the Community
The Day of Caring is more than just a single event. It:
- Helps non-profits complete projects that might otherwise stay unfinished.
- Strengthens the bond between students and the local community.
- Encourages businesses to invest in people rather than just profits.
- Builds a spirit of kindness and teamwork across the city.
This combination of hands-on work and strong partnerships makes a lasting impact, showing what can happen when people come together for the greater good.
Looking Ahead
The Day of Caring has become a tradition that continues to grow each year. With the dedication of United Way, the generosity of businesses like Evergy, and the enthusiasm of student volunteers, Emporia is shaping a future where cooperation and kindness remain at the heart of community life.
The annual Day of Caring in Emporia is proof that when people, businesses, and schools work together, they can create powerful change. From finishing important projects to building new friendships, this event strengthens both non-profits and the community itself.
By continuing this tradition, United Way and its partners ensure that Emporia remains a place where helping others is always a priority.