United Way’s Day of Action Draws 270 Volunteers

United Way of Pettis County’s Day of Action 2025 was held Saturday, June 21 and drew 270 volunteers from various businesses, civic organizations and community groups.

Day of Action focused on projects throughout the Housel Park neighborhood, including yard waste cleanup, home repairs at 35 properties, enhancements to a local nonprofit site, smoke detector installation in 24 homes, and improvements to a community garden on Hurley Street. Volunteers also assembled dozens of Children’s Mercy “Happy Kits” for pediatric patients.

The City of Sedalia gave special recognition to Justin Bray, Director of Public Works Operations Manager, and his dedicated team, who contributed an estimated $10,000 in labor, equipment, and landfill fees to support neighborhood cleanup efforts.

“Their donation made it possible for volunteers to safely and efficiently remove debris, brush, and waste from the area,” the City said in a press release.

“The Public Works Department is proud to support projects that uplift our neighborhoods,” said Bray. “It’s about being part of something bigger and working together to improve the community we all call home.”

Numerous donations received

According to United Way of Pettis County Executive Director Rachelle Simon, “This event would also not be possible without the donation of supplies. From project materials, to the food and drinks, to the organizations that have partnered with us today, all who have contributed are so appreciated. I would like to thank the following businesses and organizations”

Mid-City Lumber, Herrman Lumber Company, and Lowe’s for lumber and construction supplies.
Dugan’s Paint and Flooring Center for paint and supplies.
Sedalia Rental and Supply for power washers.
Marcum’s Landscaping Stones for dirt and mulch.
Septagon for gloves and the use of ladders.
American Red Cross for the smoke detectors.
Easy Ice for ice.
City of Sedalia for rakes, trash bags, and gloves
Heartland Coca-Cola for water and drinks.
Altrusa for breakfast
Lions Club for lunch
Pettis County Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) for the First Aid Tent in case of injury or medical emergency

There were 26 organizations, businesses, and churches that formed a total of 31 volunteer teams:

Volunteer teams noted

Anchor Point Advisory Group
Big Bear Pumpkin Patch
Blind of Central Missouri
Bothwell Regional Health Center
BTC Bank
Burrell
Duke Manufacturing
First United Methodist Church including- Masterpiece Group, Young Adults, and MPACT
Gardner Denver
Girl Scouts of Pettis County and Sedalia 200
Whiteman Air Force Base including- Geobase, Structures, The Hounds, and Whiteman Fire Department
Heartland Coca-Cola Team
Inter-State Studio
Katy Trail Community Health
St. Vincent De Paul Team
Liberty Utilities and Dalton Daniel
Melgar’s Lawn Care LLC Team
Missouri Valley Community Action Agency
New Hope Baptist Church
Owens Corning
Recovery Lighthouse
Smith Cotton High School Volleyball
Sedalia Community Helping Hands
Septagon Construction
State Fair Community College Cares

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Mayor gives thanks

In his comments during opening ceremonies at Housel Park, Sedalia Mayor Andrew Dawson said:

“It’s a privilege to join you for the United Way Day of Action—a day that brings our community together in service and solidarity … This is what community looks like—neighbors helping neighbors, hands joined in common purpose. The Day of Action is more than just one event. It’s a reflection of the belief that united is the way forward.

“By showing up today, you are helping build a stronger, safer, more hopeful Sedalia. Thank you to every volunteer, partner, and organizer. Your work matters. Your heart matters. Together, we are proving that we can do so much. Thank you,” Mayor Dawson concluded.