Dear Editor,

Love Oakdale is part of a volunteer movement that began in 2009 in the Central Valley known as Love Our Cities. Now there are more than 60 cities involved. This event has been effective in bringing together the resources of local citizens, non-profit and civic organizations, private businesses, along with city-based leadership and services to accomplish great things within communities.

Last year more than 250 volunteers of all ages and skill levels participated in completing over 25 projects that benefited the community of Oakdale and its residents. The projects are usually completed by noon.

The date for Love Oakdale is April 6, 2019 held at the Oakdale Community Park (skate park) on South Yosemite Avenue. On that Saturday a large group of volunteers will be participating in dozens of projects throughout the city. Some examples of previous projects completed were building planter boxes at convalescent homes; care packages for seniors and the homeless; painting, clean up and minor maintenance for veterans, single moms and seniors homes; repairing wheelchair ramps and neighborhood and alley clean-up in conjunction with the City of Oakdale. There are also projects that are not labor intensive so that all that want to may be involved.

Our day of service begins at Oakdale Community Park at 8 a.m. where volunteers sign in, meet up with their project leaders and enjoy a light breakfast and coffee. Before our volunteers head out we kick things off with a rally at 8:30 a.m. to thank our volunteers, sponsors, and supporters for their service and commitment. We will also be raffling off lots of toys, gifts and even a couple of bikes. Our big red heart mascot Big Red will also be there to take lots of pictures with everyone. Hope to see you there!

Gina McCarty,

Oakdale City Leader 2019