Provider Group recently closed its offices in Rhode Island and Massachusetts so employees could pitch in at the Children’s Friend Head Start Program in Providence.

Throughout the day on Oct. 19, volunteers assisted in the classroom, helped with outdoor work in the schoolyard and performed administrative tasks for Children’s Friend, a client of Provider Group.

Employees also looked on as students painted pumpkins donated by Wilson Farms in Lexington, Mass.

The outing marked the company’s inaugural day of service, which Bill Darcey, president and CEO of Provider Group, hopes to make an annual tradition.

“Since our founding over 65 years ago, we have been committed to playing a significant role in giving back to our community,” Darcey said. “The day of service is yet another opportunity for our employees to give back, and is an extension of the work we do both individually and collectively throughout the year.”

The day of service also coincided with the Insurance Industry Charitable Foundation’s Week of Giving. •