MONANDOCK REGION, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) Students across the Monadnock Region will spend April taking on projects aimed at improving their communities, as Monadnock United Way rolls out a new youth-focused service initiative.

The organization has announced its first-ever Youth Day of Caring, a program that will involve afterschool participants in a month-long series of volunteer efforts designed and led by students themselves. Activities will take place at several area programs, including ACCESS Winchester, the Keene Family YMCA, the Monadnock Youth Coalition, and the Hillsboro-Deering Afterschool Program.

The effort is part of a broader collaboration known as the Monadnock Region Afterschool Collective, a network supported by Monadnock United Way that connects multiple youth programs across the region. In addition to the participating sites, the collective also includes groups in Hinsdale, Keene, Swanzey, Troy and Fitzwilliam.

Throughout April—recognized nationally as Volunteer Appreciation Month—students will identify local needs and carry out projects that could range from environmental work to community-building activities or support for local nonprofits. Organizers say the goal is to give young people hands-on experience in making a difference while building teamwork and leadership skills.

Monadnock United Way President Liz LaRose said the initiative is intended to show students that their ideas and efforts can have a real impact, while also strengthening ties between youth programs and the communities they serve.

Each site will schedule its projects independently, allowing programs to incorporate the work into their regular afterschool routines.

A celebration is planned for May, when students and program leaders will come together to share the results of their efforts. Participants will be recognized for their contributions, and selected students will present highlights from their projects.

The program is supported by NBT Bank, which is serving as the lead sponsor. Bank representatives say the initiative aligns with their focus on community engagement and youth development, helping encourage the next generation to take an active role in local service.