Holloman shows support during Day of Caring

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class DeAndre Curtiss
  • 49th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M.-- --  Holloman Air Force Base is known for its great relationship with the surrounding community and during the Otero County Day of Caring, it was made evident.

Earlier this month, 341 members of Team Holloman gathered in an effort to help beautify the cities of Alamogordo, Tularosa and Cloudcroft during the United Way of Otero County Day of Caring.

The idea of the annual event is to help those in need of yard and house work due to physical and financial disabilities.

"There are a lot of people who need help in our community and if we can make their lives just a little easier by spending a day helping them, then it was all worth it," said Shelly Bailey, executive director of the United Way of Otero County.

Holloman members performed various jobs that supported 52 families and several local organizations. They accomplished any tasks that were asked of them, including lawn-mowing, trimming trees, pulling weeds and painting homes.

The recipients of the aid said they were greatly appreciative for the hard work and the time spent on their projects.

"Our phones have been non-stop today with people telling us how grateful they are of the work that was done at their residence or agency," said Ms. Bailey.

While this year's number of participants didn't match those of last year's record-setting mark, it was still a big turnout.

"I am humbled by the outpouring of support from our Airmen at Holloman Air Force Base," said Senior Master Sgt. Christopher Blackmon, Day of Caring project coordinator. "We accomplished a lot in only one day."

The United Way of Otero County Day of Caring was meant to help those who couldn't help themselves in the local community, but according to Ms. Bailey, it was a little bit more than that.

"It's a great feeling when you see our volunteers go into someone's home to help them and to see the appreciation on their face. It makes it all worthwhile," she said. "To me, that's a good day."