DEERFIELD — “It’s good to give back to the community,” said Desiree Ducharme, a volunteer from Yankee Candle Co., who, along with about 20 other employees, helped make the town a little bit brighter Tuesday morning.
The volunteers joined other community members and gathered in front of the South County Senior Center on North Main Street about 9 a.m. They planted colorful flowers in front of the library, town hall, senior center and around the railroad tracks in the center of town.
All of the plants were donated by local businesses, including Veterinary Emergency and Specialty, Pioneer SAAB Volvo, LTS Tools Inc., The Wok, Crossman Financial Services and Sugarloaf Laundromat.
“At the end, we’re going to be making some baskets,” said Ellen Tinen, executive assistant to the president of wholesale at Yankee Candle Co., who helped organize the event. The baskets will be given to seniors in the community through a free raffle.
“We like to get out of the office and give back to the community,” she continued.
Other businesses, such as Lamore Lumber Co., Holiday Pizza, Jerry’s Place and Spirit Shop donated items like water, pizza and mulch.
Alyene Rodriguez, who also works at Yankee Candle, agreed with Ducharme about the importance of volunteer work.
“This is a fun, team-building activity, and a chance to give back,” she said.
The beautification event was the result of a collaboration between Yankee Candle and town officials.
“The plants are strategically located around town,” said Marlene Johnson, senior center director. “I’m really excited about being a part of such a wonderful community.”
This is the first time the local candle-making company has collaborated with the town for a beautification project.
Johnson said the next big event at the senior center is another first: a craft fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. July 23.