The Liebert Corp. showed the Ironton City Welfare Mission that it cares. On Friday, employees from Liebert painted the fellowship hall at the mission in conjunction with the United Way of the River Cities' "Day of Caring."

The goal of this program is to match

volunteers from local companies and the community with work projects at health and human service agencies, said Kheng Yap-McGuire, executive director for United Way of the River Cities.

Representatives from Liebert said the

company is trying to help out any way it can and this is only a start.

"This is very important. Liebert is one of the few big companies in the Lawrence County area," said Debbie Mays, co-coordinator for Liebert Corp.'s participation. "If we don't help out, who will?"

"This is a big help, them coming to share with us," Jim Cremeans, director of the City Welfare Mission, said. "They can knock it out in a few hours where it would take us a few days."

Cremeans said this sends "a good message" and they appreciate all the support.

"I really think Liebert has stepped up to the plate and supported the community," he said. "It shows they are interested and care about the community."

Liebert is also going to try and help the mission with school supplies as August draws near, Mays said.

"The City Mission assisted almost 5,000 families last year," said Ironton resident Tim Hopkins, quality manager at Liebert and the first employee in the Ironton building. "Being the largest employer in the county, that distinction also brings a responsibility to helping out causes like the City Mission."

"It is real satisfying," he said. "They do incredible work and its nice to get out and help them." Michael Caldwell/The Ironton Tribune