Holloman lends hand to local community during Day of Caring

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Sondra Escutia
  • 49th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  More than 400 members of Team Holloman set out into the Tularosa Basin -- work gloves and tools in hand -- in support of the United Way of Otero County Day of Caring, May 14.

The day-long event is held annually in an effort to help those in need with yard and house work due to physical and financial limitations.

"The Day of Caring was started to give service back to the community," said Warren Robinson, executive director of the United Way of Otero County. "[It] reminds citizens that there is always someone in need and most likely there are individuals available who can help."

This year, Team Holloman volunteers completed more than 80 requests throughout Alamogordo, Boles Acres, Tularosa, La Luz and Cloudcroft. They worked under the New Mexico sun mowing lawns, trimming bushes, cleaning yards, pulling weeds and painting, while some teams with particular skill sets took on special assignments.

"One notable project this year was the renovation of a bathroom for an elderly gentleman," said Master Sgt. Samuel Tran, a Day of Caring coordinator and member of the 49th Civil Engineer Squadron.

The 49th CES team used their technical expertise to remove and replace rotted flooring and ceiling in the bathroom and installed a new toilet, sink and vanity. They plan on assisting the United Way to continue the renovation throughout the year.

One team leader said despite the sometimes strenuous work, the volunteers enjoyed themselves and did not lose the motivation to help.

"My team had a great attitude - - they were very hard workers no matter what the task," said Master Sgt. Michelle Long, 49th Fighter Wing, Zone 1 leader. "The Day of Caring was a lot of hard work, but it was really fun too. It was great working as a team and being a witness to the efforts of Holloman Airmen."

Sergeant Long added that seeing the difference the work made after each job was rewarding, and it seems the volunteers were not the only ones to walk away with a good feeling.

One recipient who put in a Day of Caring request was unable to do yard work at one of her homes due to her husband's Alzheimer's and her own diagnosis with breast cancer.

"We had mowed it earlier this spring, but then I was diagnosed with breast cancer and could not find the time nor energy between radiation treatments and doctor's appointments," she said.

Friday morning, Day of Caring volunteers stepped in and left their lawn looking like a "well-manicured park."

"Truly, words are not adequate to express our appreciation for the help we received from the Airmen on the Day of Caring," said one Alamogordo resident who received help cleaning her overgrown yard. "It is overwhelming to have someone help in such a way ... we are tremendously grateful."

Since Friday, the United Way of Otero County has also been receiving several phone calls and thank you notes from Day of Caring recipients who appreciated the support from their "neighbors" at Holloman.

"I think of the time when neighbors use to help each other by just being neighborly," said Mr. Robinson. "When seniors or the disabled come in contact with willing and energetic volunteers, that neighborly feeling returns. This outpouring of support and service on the Day of Caring is heartwarming and greatly appreciated."

Sergeant Tran also believes the Day of Caring impacted the local community not only through helping beautify individual homes, but by nurturing the lasting relationship between Holloman and the surrounding area.

"Some of our volunteers even build a bond with those they help and they stay in contact with each other well after the Day of Caring is over," said Sergeant Tran, who has participated in the event for four years. "I think the physical work Day of Caring brings to Otero County is very apparent, but what is less seen is the friendship, bonding and lasting memories that comes from this endeavor."