More than 150 volunteers rolled up their sleeves across Northumberland County on Friday, June 5, 2026, as the Northumberland United Way hosted its 27th Annual Day of Caring.
The annual event, one of the county’s largest coordinated volunteer initiatives, saw volunteers dispatched to 30 locations throughout the region to complete projects benefiting community organizations, charities, and non-profit groups.
The day began with a breakfast at the Cobourg Lions Centre, provided by the Cobourg Lions Club. Volunteers gathered for registration, a safety presentation by Andy Thorne, Vice President of Fuel Services at Cameco Corporation, and opening remarks from Cobourg Mayor Lucas Cleveland and Northumberland United Way Executive Director Alicia Vandine.
Originally launched as a workplace volunteer initiative, Day of Caring brought together employees from companies including Cameco, CPK, and Sabic to dedicate a day to community service. Nearly three decades later, the event has grown into one of Northumberland County’s most visible celebrations of volunteerism.
Several long-term projects reached significant milestones during this year’s event. At the Northumberland Humane Society, volunteers completed a Memorial Garden that was started during last year’s Day of Caring. The garden provides a space for reflection and remembrance for pet owners and supporters of the organization.
Meanwhile, teams at Ed’s House Hospice Northumberland Care Centre continued landscaping projects while also constructing and installing an outdoor workstation for a new pick-your-own flower station designed to enhance accessibility and provide a welcoming outdoor space for visitors and families.
A number of organizations once again benefited from volunteer support, including the Cobourg Public Library, Cornerstone Family Violence Prevention Centre, PrimRose Donkey Sanctuary, Friends of Wesleyville, Community Living & Respite Northumberland, and Streamway Villa Long-Term Care.
New project sites added to this year’s Day of Caring included Five Counties Children’s Centre in Cobourg, Youth Wellness Hub Northumberland in Port Hope, and the Community Health Centres of Northumberland.
Volunteers and organizers concluded the day with a barbecue hosted by the Lions Club.
“Day of Caring is one of my favourite days of the year,” said Alicia Vandine, Executive Director of Northumberland United Way. “It’s a chance to celebrate the incredible United Way at Work partnerships that have made this day possible for 27 years and to be reminded of what volunteerism looks like when a whole community shows up together.”
The photos/video include volunteers from the Town of Cobourg working at Streamway Villa, weeding garden and laying mulch.
Volunteers from CPK Interiors working at Horizons of Friendship gardening of flowerbeds at front and side of building along with removal of stump and adding flowers.
And volunteers from Cameco Corp working at Community Living & Respite Northumberland
power washing sidewalk, walkway exterior windows and fascia along with weed and clean up of the garden.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
