On Over 60 people from throughout the community joined the United Way of St. Thomas-St. John board members and United Way agencies to revitalized the historic Winston Raymo Center as the 8th Annual Day of Caring activity on Saturday, October 22nd.

Gallons of paint, paint brushes, scrapers, ladders, shovels and weed-wackers removed layers of old paint and weeds that were replaced by freshly painted walls, green groundcover and flowers that now beautify the front of the building. Volunteers also tackled the grass, weeds and vines that covered the playground, and painted the lobby and recreation rooms from a glaring gold to a soft blue. In the basketball court newly installed bleachers were painted as well as the court’s back wall.

After a light breakfast, President Raymond Green welcomed the volunteers and said, “Many have shared their stories of special times spent at the Winston Raymo Center when they were growing up here in St. Thomas. This place has special meaning to many who participated in classes that developed their skills and the character of youngsters, and who are now leaders in the Virgin Islands community.”

Day of Caring Chairperson, Dr. Elba Guerra, said, “This year is indeed special. We are so pleased that so many young people pitched in to scrape, paint, and plant, including those who live in the area. In previous years, we have seen young people, residents and organizations continue to clean and maintain improvements made on the Day of Caring. The Day is not just a one-time event, but has a long-term impact on the communities.”

In addition to the United Way board members, volunteers came from Civil Air Patrol, Downstreet People, Catholic Charities, Ebenezer Gardens, Antilles School, Charlotte Amalie High School, Jane E. Tuitt Elementary School, Antonio Jarvis Elementary School, Ulla Mulla Elementary School, Marriott Frenchman’s Reef, and the Department of Housing, Parks, and Recreation.

Many businesses participated by donating goods and services, including Bay Painters, the Paint Depot, Sea Chest, Marriott Frenchman’s Reef, Wyndham Sugar Bay Resort, Coca Cola Bottling Company, Frank’s Bakery, the Fruit Bowl, Value Food and Sources One.

For information about giving your tax deductible, charitable contribution or volunteering with United Way of St. Thomas-St. John, call (340) 774-3185.