Helping Hands, Caring Hearts

Planting new garden beds and organizing school supplies were just a couple of the tasks tackled by Emory volunteers at last fall’s Emory Cares International Service Day project at Cumberland Academy of Georgia, a school specializing in the needs of children with social and learning differences. 

“It’s deeply rewarding to know that volunteering a few hours can make such a difference for so many people,” says participant Lynn Garson 81L. “This Emory Cares project allowed me to make a really special school just a little more beautiful for the kids—and that feels great.”

Sponsored again this year by the Emory Alumni Creative, the Cumberland Academy of Georgia project will focus on beautifying the school’s garden beds, painting, and organizing donations and maintenance spaces. “We are so appreciative of the volunteer efforts of Emory alumni,” says Tori Andrews, Cumberland Academy’s director of philanthropy.  “Their assistance in checking off our wish list tasks allows our team to focus on what matters most—ensuring an engaging education and a rich academic experience for our students.”

Now celebrating its twelfth year, Emory Cares International Service Day is a partnership between the Emory Alumni Association and Volunteer Emory. “On November 8, Emory Cares and Emory Cares Everywhere projects will continue to connect with more organizations in need,” says Venus Miller, program coordinator for Emory Cares. “Around the world, any Emory alumnus can sign up to take part by visiting the Emory Cares website to register for a project that inspires you.”

Since its inception, Emory Cares has worked in collaboration with Volunteer Emory to serve 118 organizations in thirty-two cities and six countries around the world. With more than ten thousand volunteers already lending their hearts and time to worthy projects, Miller says, “Emory Cares International Service Day will continue to represent the best of Emory’s commitment to bettering our communities.”