Rainy day didn’t stop 14th KARE for Kane

KANE—THE Kane Volunteer Fire Department had some help from Mother Nature as they washed down the streets and sidewalks early Friday morning, May 10. They were the first team out doing their part for KARE for Kane, held rain or shine, and this year was a wet one.

Fortunately, it didn’t slow down the volunteers who came out in numbers close to the record. Almost 600 volunteers from the community and students from the school district were registered.

From the first KARE for Kane, 14 years ago, fingers have been crossed for good weather. It makes things a bit easier, but the fact is, the work needs done whether it’s wet or dry. The volunteers still wore

smiles on their faces, knowing that they were taking care of the town they call home, and they accomplished a lot. Almost all of the projects planned, except

for outdoor painting, were accomplished on the single day.

With the winter weather almost certainly behind them, it was a chance to wash

the streets of dust and gravel, rake the leaves from their pile-ups under bushes, and pick up blown down sticks. The volunteers also spread grass seed,

picked up litter, and pulled up weeds that already sprang up. They also spread tons and tons of mulch everywhere. The result of all of this work, done

in one big push, was an incredible transformation from the dull gray of winter into the clean colorful spring.

The Kane Rotary Club served a hot lunch to the volunteers in the Kane Area Community Center, the base of operations for the day. Refreshed, the volunteers ventured back into the light rain to finish their projects with full stomachs.

The community spirit was central. Businesses and nonprofits alike sent teams of volunteers to work together, which strengthened their bonds through shared, albeit soggy, work. Even the youngest Kane residents helped, like groups of preschoolers who were picking up sticks in Evergreen Park. They were learning the message behind KARE for Kane—if you care for your town, your town will care for you.

Photo submitted The Trail Association of the Mckean and Elk Divide (TAMED) had a very productive KARE for Kane day. Their volunteers fixed washouts, removed litter, and prepared a base for a memorial bench at a scenic view along the trail. They send many thanks to RWF Excavating, Kane Manor Inn and Fitzpatrick Landscaping for their support.

Photo by Andy Mckowan These volunteers from UPMC Kane were spreading mulch along the soccer fields at Glenwood Park. Cassie Kelly (left) and Kellie Ely (right).

Photo submitted These volunteers from UPMC Kane gathered for a group picture at the Kane Area Community Center, the base of operations for KARE for Kane, before heading out to work for the day.