Employees of Coca-Cola United visited YWCA Central Alabama to give its Child Development Center (CDC) a little tender love and care. The group of 10 volunteers kicked off their visit with a tour of the center that houses Calico Corner, KIDS Korner and the YWCA’s After-School Enrichment Program for Homeless Children (ASEP). The YWCA’s nationally accredited CDC features several classrooms with varying designs based on the students’ needs, two playgrounds, an indoor play area and a learning kitchen that teaches students motor skills, self-sufficiency and independence.
Following their tour, the volunteers separated into two groups, one to tidy up the playground and the other to tackle the teachers’ resource closet. The group of volunteers that worked on the playground removed debris and weeds, replaced the soil in the garden beds and removed tree limbs that previously blocked students’ view of the city, while the other group organized and shelved hundreds of books and games.
“Clearing weeds and spreading mulch on the children’s playground as well as organizing the teachers’ resource room was much more than mere service,” said Valerie Johnson, YWCA volunteer and special projects manager. “They helped us create a more caring community by their commitment to making a difference in the lives of the children we serve in our daycare and the teachers who compassionately nurture and educate our little ones.” 
The YWCA provides several ways for volunteers to support our organization. Whether you have a few hours or a few days, we are grateful for your time. To learn more about volunteer opportunities, please contact our Volunteer and Special Projects Manager Valerie Johnson at 205.322.9922 or vjohnson@ywcabham.org.