At St. Thomas, VI, – On Saturday, November 13, 2004 volunteers from throughout the St. Thomas-St. John communities will roll up their sleeves and get to work at United Way of St. Thomas-St. John seventh annual Day of Caring. This event provides people with hands-on volunteer opportunities and will be held for the first time on St. John. Last year, nearly 400 volunteers celebrated the spirit of community service by helping to paint, construct, and beautify the campus of the Charlotte Amalie High School.

Starting at 8:00 am and working until noon, volunteers will work on several projects at the Julius E. Sprauve School and the nearby Winston Wells Ballfield. In collaboration with the Department of Housing, Parks and Recreation, the dugout and walls surrounding the Field will be plastered and painted. Additionally, benches will be constructed and installed in the dugouts and the front of the school will be landscaped.

Volunteers have already begun work on designing a playground area for the students in the elementary grades housed at the Annex, across the street from the School’s main facility. Mario Francis, principal of Julius Sprauve School said, “ Having a safe recreational area for the youngsters at the Annex has been one of my long-time goals for improving Sprauve School.” He added that with an architect, playground designer and landscapers donating their time and expertise, the development of a master plan for that project is well underway. “Thanks to the United Way and its volunteers the School and Field will receive a much-needed facelift and at last, the youngsters at the Annex can look forward to having a safe and fun environment to play in.”

Rosalie Javois, chair of this year’s Day of Caring, and Carole DeSenne, United Way’s St. John Division chair, invite members of the St. John community who may not have participated before in a Day of Caring to do so this year. DeSenne said, “This is an opportunity for St. Johnians, especially those who are strapped for time, to take part in a rewarding and meaningful voluntary experience.” For those on St. Thomas wishing to participate, free transportation to St. John will be available to those who reserve a space. To do so or to learn more about the Day of Caring, contact the United Way office at 774-3185.