You’ve got a week to ponder this, and I’d encourage you to give it real thought. Next weekend, October 24th is “Make a Difference Day”- a time to get out and volunteer, to well, “make a difference” in the lives of others.
The brainchild of USA Weekend Magazine, this annual event brings millions of folks out to serve individuals and their community. If you’ve never volunteered, there are tons of ideas on their website, including the “idea generator”- a simple questionnaire that matches you with projects to volunteer with. If you want to get heavy into this, there is an award available to vie for on behalf of the charity of your choice (see entry form) or simply volunteer because it really does feel good to “make a difference”
Here are the details:
What is Make A Difference Day?
Make A Difference Day is the most encompassing national day of helping others — a celebration of neighbors helping neighbors. Everyone can participate. Created by USA WEEKEND Magazine, Make A Difference Day is an annual event that takes place on the fourth Saturday of every October. The next event is Saturday, October 24, 2009.
Guide to the Day, creating and launching a project: Download a PDF brochure Millions have participated. In 2008, 3 million people cared enough about their communities to volunteer on that day, accomplishing thousands of projects in hundreds of towns.
Your project can be as large or as small as you wish! Look around your community and see what needs to be done. Or let the Idea Generator help you find a project idea to help your community.
After participating Oct. 24, please send in an entry form so you will be counted among the millions of volunteers and be considered for an award.
Who takes part in Make A Difference Day?Anyone. Young and old, individuals and groups, anyone can carry out a volunteer project that helps others. It might be as ambitious as collecting truckloads of clothing for the homeless, or as personal as spending an afternoon helping an elderly neighbor or relative. USA WEEKEND features volunteers and their projects in articles and photos
If you aren’t sure what opportunities exist- go to “volunteer match.com” and punch in your zip or city for community events or partnering with internet sites. I just signed up with e-Pals, an e-based volunteer program to pen pal with kids! (Great for folks with limited time away from home!)
However you do it, get out and make a difference in the lives of others and while doing so, you’ll make a difference in your own life as well. You’ve got to give to get a little back!