A group of local volunteers pitching in to give the YMCA in Binghamton a makeover outside. The building is still in need of some work after last year’s flooding. Our Elyse Mickalonis shows us how people worked hard to brighten things up Saturday.

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BINGHAMTON, N.Y. -- It’s work that needed to be done, and work volunteers had no problem tackling.

“My hands are dirty with the weeding here at the Y and we’re loving it,” said Cindy Chadwick, NYSEG and RG&E Director of Public Relations. “I have to say when we’re working with friends and family for the good of the community, it doesn’t feel like we’re giving up anything, I’d much rather be doing this here than at home.”

Saturday marked Iberdrola’s third annual International Volunteer Day. More than 150 NYSEG and Rochester Gas & Electric employees, as well as family members, took the time to give back to community organizations around the state.

“Every year things have gotten bigger and better. We’ve have more volunteers each year, more projects each year,” said Chadwick.

In Binghamton a group of volunteers weeded, raked and mulched outside the YMCA. The building suffered damage during last year’s flooding and portions of the building still need to be repainted and reworked. Many say they’re happy to help with the recovery.

“We were here last year as well and we were doing a lot of painting, because of a lot of internal damage to the Y,” said Chadwick. “Today we’re outside weeding the flowerbeds, pruning, trimming and generally sprucing up the exterior, so it stays fresh and new after the flood damage.”

Emily Matthews, Conklin resident, added, “Our community has been through so much. I think now it’s rebuilding, we should do as much as we can to make it what it was before.”

Volunteers say they’re thrilled to be part of a worldwide effort, but thankful to bring their energy to a local cause.

“It’s a great feeling to know people are in all parts of the world doing the same thing,” said Chadwick.

Sheri Lamoureux, NYSEG Human Resources Vice President, added, “It’s a great opportunity to come together globally to really do something that makes a difference locally.”

Employees have also been collecting food for local food pantries since the beginning of the month. Donated items will help families during the holidays.