Shipbuilders volunteered at Peake Childhood Center to support the United Way Day of Caring. Back row, from left: Deborah Pittman (X41), Noel Rodriguez (E70), D.J. Givens (T51), John Banks (E82) and Melvin Ford (E18). Front row: Breanika Butler (T55), Karisten Frazier (K46), Bertha “Bee” Ballard (N363), Preshus Boone (E35), Janice Boone (O03), Thomas Cragg (X71), Yolanda Binns (X41), Talley Allen (X39) and Malika Hampton (X41).
Volunteers Make an Impact During United Way Day of Caring
Published October 15, 2025
A group from Newport News Shipbuilding recently volunteered at Peake Childhood Center as a part of the United Way Day of Caring. The Peninsula-wide initiative encourages volunteers to support local nonprofits, schools and community organizations.
Peake is an early childhood learning school with a curriculum focused on S.T.R.E.A.M. (science, technology, reading, engineering, art, mathematics). Shipbuilders helped Peake run a STREAM-themed field day, helping to create a fun and educational experience for children from ages 2 to 4.
“Taking part in the STREAM field day was such a fun and memorable event,” said Janice Boone (O03), one of the NNS volunteers. “It was heartwarming to see all the little ones so excited, and I loved being able to help and cheer them on throughout the event.”
Each subject area came to life through hands-on activity stations designed to spark curiosity. From guiding little artists at the process art mural station to helping budding scientists conduct interactive experiments, NNS volunteers brought energy, creativity and care to every moment. It was a day filled with laughter, learning and lasting memories for the children and the volunteers alike.