518 Day Unites the Capital Region

518 Day Delivers Largest Coordinated Day of Volunteer Service

View the impact from the day >> 518 Day Photo Album

Albany, N.Y. – May 18, 2026 – As the largest coordinated day of volunteerism in the Capital Region, 518 Day once again showcased the power of collective action in its 8th year, with volunteers contributing more than 4,000 hours of service in support of dozens of nonprofit and community-based organizations.

More than 1,000 volunteers across the Capital Region came together on Monday, May 18, to make a difference during 518 Day, a region-wide celebration of service led by United Way of the Greater Capital Region and presented by CDPHP.

Through the morning into the afternoon, volunteers rolled up their sleeves to complete hands-on service projects that created a meaningful impact for nearly 40 nonprofit organizations throughout the Capital Region. Local projects included outdoor cleanups, neighborhood beautification projects, organizing donations, painting facilities, and supporting nonprofit operations throughout the region.

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Community-Based Organizations

44

Corporate Organizations

1,000+

Community Volunteers

18,000+

Diapers donated to the Born Thriving drive

“518 Day is a powerful reflection of what makes the Capital Region so special: People coming together with a shared commitment to lift up their neighbors and strengthen our community," said Peter Gannon, President and CEO of United Way of the Greater Capital Region. "We are incredibly proud to partner with organizations like CDPHP and to see hundreds of volunteers step forward in service. This collective effort shows that when we unite around a common purpose, we can create lasting, meaningful change.”

Nick Kraft, Chief Customer and Engagement Officer at CDPHP said: 

“CDPHP is proud to support 518 Day and the incredible work of the United Way and our nonprofit partners across the Capital Region. This day is a powerful reminder that when we come together in service, we can make a meaningful and lasting difference in the lives of our neighbors. Supporting our community isn’t just part of our mission; it’s who we are.”

In addition to volunteer projects across the region, community members also supported the Born Thriving Diaper Drive. Donations were collected at CDPHP Fitness Connect at the Ciccotti Center as well as through workplace and online campaigns. By day's end, nearly 20,000 diapers had been collected to benefit local families in the Capital Region.

Local leaders from across the Capital Region also recognized the importance of the event and the spirit of service it represents.

Assemblymember John T. McDonald III, RPh said: 

“One of the greatest strengths of the Capital Region is our community and the willingness of people, organizations, and businesses to come together in support of one another. 518 Day is a celebration of that shared commitment, recognizing the nonprofit partners who work every day to strengthen our communities and reminding us all that when we roll up our sleeves together, we can make a real difference for our neighbors in need. I’m proud to join United Way of the Greater Capital Region, CDPHP, and so many dedicated community leaders in celebrating the generosity and compassion that define the 518.”

Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy said: 

“518 Day reflects the very best of who we are as a community. Across Albany County and the Capital Region, residents are stepping up to support one another through 35 different service projects that will make a real difference. I want to thank the United Way of the Greater Capital Region, along with nearly 1,000 volunteers and 47 community and corporate partners who are giving their time and energy to make these projects possible. Today is a powerful reminder that strong communities are built through partnerships, compassion, and neighbors helping neighbors.”

Colonie Town Supervisor Peter G. Crummey said: 

“I wish to thank the United Way of the Greater Capital Region and CDPHP for fostering this day of service. Our Town and our Capital Region are strengthened by residents who selflessly serve others, inspiring change through their dedication while fostering a stronger sense of community.”

This year’s 518 Day included participation from more than 35 nonprofit organizations, including Unity House, Catholic Charities, Crossroads Center for Children, Jewish Family Services, To Life! Inc., South End Children's Cafe, Grassroots Givers, and Albany Love Center, among many others.

Nearly 40 Corporate Partners, including CDPHP, Albany Med, LeChase, Hudson Valley Credit Union, Bank of America, and KPMG provided volunteers to ensure the projects would be completed.

Volunteers in front of CDPHP Van

Partnership with CDPHP

As part of this year’s expanded initiative, we connected volunteer participation to the CDPHP Workforce Team Challenge, helping generate additional charitable contributions and extend the reach of the week’s community impact in the Capital Region.

Donations matched by United Way supported the CDPHP Workforce Team Challenge charities of choice — Crossroads Center for Children and Catholic Charities.

Thank you to all of our 1000+ volunteers 

Thank you to everyone who participated in this inspiring day of service. Your energy and commitment to service helped make 518 Day special.

We invite volunteers and the community to visit our photo gallery and relive the special moments shared throughout the Capital Region. Together, we are building stronger, more resilient communities.

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