The United Way Day of Caring takes place on Friday, Sept. 20.

Organized locally by United Way of King County, the event makes it possible for people to volunteer in special work groups that visit local non-profits, public schools and city parks for a day of service. Group leaders work with each organization on specific projects that volunteers accomplish by day’s end.

“The United Way Day of Caring is the largest volunteer event in Washington State,” said Amy Hardebeck, Executive Director of the Lake Wilderness Arboretum Foundation. “It’s a great way to help out local nonprofits, and have fun, too.”

This year, 75 volunteers from Nordstrom Corporate are lending a hand at the Arboretum on garden and forest projects led by Garden Manager Susan Goodell and dedicated volunteers, staff and board members.

After the day’s work, registered volunteers are invited to Fisher Pavilion in Seattle for the Day of Caring After Party to enjoy free food, drinks and prizes.

In 2012, about 12,000 people tackled 448 projects all around King County, working a total of 59,737 hours valued at more than $1.3 million in labor.

To register a volunteer group, visit http://www.uwkc.org/ways-to-volunteer/day-ofcaring/.

Visit LakeWildernessArboretum.org, email info@lakewildernessarboretum.org or call

253- 293-5103 to volunteer, donate or become a member.