GRAND ISLAND, NE (June 18, 2026) More than 60 volunteers took action for their community during Heartland United Way’s Annual Day of Action on Thursday.
Volunteer signed up for nine tasks, hosted by seven of Heartland United Way’s community partners. Participants picked up trash at Stolley Park, painted shelter office and entry spaces, organized donations, retouched a mural and more.
“This day brings our community together to support local nonprofits so they can focus on what they do best—serving others and meeting critical needs,” said Sara Kirkley, Heartland United Way communications director. “It reminds us that when people unite around a common purpose, the impact can be extraordinary. It also allows volunteers to learn more about these incredible organizations and the challenges they face. Their work truly makes our communities stronger and better for everyone.”
Some volunteers used the event to motivate the next generation to get involved.
Amber High brought her three boys to paint flower pots at the Central Nebraska Council on Alcoholism and Addiction.
“We take advantage of a lot of things in Grand Island as a family and I want my kids to be able to see all the resources and understand that there are a variety of us that live here and that we all have different needs and we can support one another,” said High.
Heartland United Way Board Member Brandon Hotovy brought his daughter to paint at Hope Harbor.
“I think it’s important just to teach our younger generation the importance of service and giving back to the community,” said Hotovy.
Several local businesses and organizations, including Case New Holland, Lisa Willman State Farm, Keystone Properties and Stuhr Museum Foundation, rallied teams to participate.
FNBO held their own Day of Action on Wednesday, assembling 150 family emergency packets for Multicultural Coalition.
Volunteers also sold treats at the Heartland United Way’s SCOOPS Ice Cream Parlor, which benefits HUW and our 20 community partners, on Thursday.
This effort is part of United Way Worldwide’s movement to mobilize people to act on or around the longest day of the year. It has been happening since 2008.
Volunteers are needed year-round. You can find volunteer opportunities at go2volunteer.org.
Visit heartlandunitedway.org to learn more about United Way’s work to help everyone in Hall, Hamilton, Howard and Merrick Counties get the support and opportunities they need to thrive.
Volunteer Opportunities:
- Central Nebraska Council on Alcoholism & Addictions – Painting flower pots
- Crossroads Mission Avenue – Organizing donations at Mission Thrift
- Heartland United Way – Capturing Day of Action photos & SCOOPS Ice Cream Parlor
- Hope Harbor – Painting an entryway & office & landscaping
- Legal Aid of Nebraska - Assembling information bags
- Literacy Council of Grand Island – Retouching a mural
- Multicultural Coalition – Assembling family emergency packets
- Teammates Mentoring – Picking up trash at Stolley Park