From left, Chuck West and Maryanne Povey hold the ribbon for County Supervisor Sue Frost, along with Frost’s husband, Jack Frost, in recognition of orange trees planted at the Orangevale Community Center in recognition for the supervisor’s service to the community. Photo by Heidi Lettau

FAIR OAKS, CA (MPG) - Despite facing unexpected rain showers on May 4, the spirit of unity and service prevailed on the Big Day of Service (BDOS) 2024, as nearly 1,000 volunteers flexed and rallied together, adjusting to a later start time and relocating indoors to Sunrise Community Church.   

The dedicated volunteers didn’t let the weather dampen their enthusiasm, successfully completing 40 out of the planned 50 projects.

 

Community leader Brad Squires remarked, "Blessed are the flexible," acknowledging the commitment of all participants who showed up. While some projects had to be postponed due to the rain, many projects were fulfilled, ranging from beautification to encouragement to enhancing community spaces.

 The damp weather didn’t stop this crew of volunteers at the OV History Museums landscape update. Photo by Heidi Lettau

Sacramento County Supervisor Sue Frost, a supporter of the program since its inception, commended the community's efforts over the past six years stating, “You know the best part of the community is you,” along with thanking everyone for being there. In recognition of Sue’s contributions, an orange tree was planted at the Orangevale Community Center, ensuring her legacy endures beyond her term, which concludes in January.

 Project leaders and emcees, Brad Squires and MaryAnne Povey, take a moment to gather for a group photo before heading out to lead projects on the Big Day of Service 2024. Photo by Heidi Lettau

Special thanks to the Knights of Columbus who provided delicious brunch burritos, while the Junior Casa Rams, Junior Bronco cheerleaders and the OVEE mascot energized the crowd before embarking on their projects throughout Orangevale and Fair Oaks.

Gratitude extends to the Big Day of Service team leaders, including Tom Carden, Jenn Gustafson, Lisa Montes, Horacio Oropeza, Paul Huegel, Jason Massae, Dave Cerrie, Sean Palmer, Chuck West and Steve Morgan, whose meticulous planning for months ensured the day's success.

 Tom Carden, Big Day of Service coordinator, thanks his core leadership team for their hard work and planning since January until now. Photo by Heidi Lettau

Special appreciation also goes to the generous sponsors whose contributions made the projects possible, including Orangevale-Fair Oaks Community Foundation; County of Sacramento,  Sue Frost; Rotary Club of Orangevale; Lyon Real Estate; County of Sacramento; District 4 Supervisor Rich Desmond; Sunrise Community Church; Kathleen Massae Realtor; LDS Church; Millers Ace Hardware; Albano, Dale, Dunn & Lewis Insurance Services, Inc.; SMUD; Orangevale Chamber of Commerce; Fair Oaks Presbyterian Church; Rotary Club of Fair Oaks; Dairy Queen; American River Ace Hardware; and Orangevale Recreation & Parks.

Cheers to the remarkable Orangevale and Fair Oaks community for their tremendous efforts. Thank you to all who made this year's Big Day of Service unforgettable. Together, we are commUNITY strong!