Five simple steps to participating in JOIN HANDS DAY

We are less than one month out from the official Join Hands Day – a day dedicated to bridging the gap between older and younger generations through community service. UCT local councils have participated in the event since it started in 2000.

Being that I’m one of the newest members to UCT, I wanted to know more about how I could get involved and what our councils like to do on Join Hands Day.

With the help of Past International President Darlene Gillies and member Linda Maliteare, I was able to put together this short list to help all of us plan for this year’s Join Hands Day.

1. Start small. It can be as simple as cleaning up a local park, walking dogs at a local animal shelter or even running errands for people with disabilities in your community.
2. Get your family and friends involved. Ask them what clubs or organizations they’re involved with and find out how your council can help. Darlene Gillies says her granddaughter’s 4-H Club needed help cleaning up the riding arena – and that’s how Neepawa, Manitoba Council 924 got started with Join Hands Day. 
3. Keep it local. Work with the youth in your area. Linda Maliteare, Minnedosa, Manitoba Council 926, recommends projects that beautify the community and help the kids gain an appreciation of a job well done.
4. Bring food and have fun! Once the project is complete, follow it up with a meal. It gives everyone a chance to reflect on the good work you just did and an opportunity to talk with each other. It’s also a great opportunity to teach people about UCT and what we do!
5. Last, but not least – wear gloves! From all the stories I’ve heard, UCT members like to get their hands dirty – whether it’s planting flowers, picking up trash or even cleaning up manure! It is safe to say gloves are always a good choice.

Don’t wait, start planning your Join Hands Day project now. Please make sure you send in your council’s Join Hands Day pictures and information. We want to see the impact your council is having on your community and the youth.

Special thanks to Darlene Gillies, Neepawa, Manitoba Council 924 and Linda Maliteare, Minnedosa, Manitoba Council 926 for sharing their Join Hands Day experiences.