By Arwen McGilvra –
There were over 225 people, from 22 churches, who turned out Saturday, July 8, for the 2017 Day of Service organized by Serve INC. The volunteers painted and landscaped Fairmount Elementary School in North Albany In Jefferson, volunteers worked on landscape maintenance around Jefferson Middle School. They also painted the Jefferson baseball dugouts in colors to match other buildings and grandstand on the football field.
Since 2010 Serve INC volunteers have done projects at 11 area schools.
“It was a great event. I continue to be gratified by the support of area businesses and churches and
GAPS. We have good support from experienced painters so that we are able consistently to do a good job. Jon Killinger, volunteer coordinator for Albany, devotes a lot of time in preparation and planning to ensure that the time of the volunteers is well invested,” said board chairman Jerry McIntosh.
“Our objective is to provide Service In the Name of Christ. We believe that God is honored when the Christian Community works together in service to the community. The friendships that are cultivated in working together have provided collaborations in other areas as well,” McIntosh continued.
Doug Pigman, Facilities Director for the Greater Albany Public Schools is glad of the consistent quality that the group has provided for projects, which is why the school district continues to partner with the group.
Serve INC also partners with Child Evangelism Fellowship to provide a Kids Zone with
lots of fun activities for children during the event. This year’s kids zone featured bounceables, crafts, games and snow cones.
This year’s sponsors include Burcham’s Metals, Edward Jones- Clay Dluehosh, Boldt Carlisle and Smith LLC, CPA, Greater Albany Rotary Club, Albany Lock and Key, Don David and Associates, Northwest Leadership Group, Sherwin Williams Paint, Lowes, Hamby Realty, ALC, and Commercial Real Estate Solutions.
Serve INC’s 8th annual Day of Service was another big success thanks to the many participating churches, local businesses and volunteers.