Make A Difference Day 2012 will be on Saturday, October 27

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. This year, the Volunteer Center of Cedar Valley is celebrating Make A Difference Day the entire month of October.

Local businesses can make a big difference in the community by rallying employees to gather youth items and supplies to donate to the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Cedar Valley. These items will be used to support children in need at the Clubs. Last year the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Cedar Valley reached over 600 children with their four units.

To participate in Make a Difference Day 2012 encourage your employees to bring in requested supplies between October 1st and 26th. Collection bins will be provided to you by contacting the Volunteer Center of Cedar Valley. Needed items include: simple puzzles, jump ropes, outdoor balls, paper, face paint, acrylic paint, markers, AAA batteries, kitchen washcloths, potholders and SOS pads, dish soap, paper towels and snacks.

“Businesses can help so many by being part of Make a Difference Day! Volunteering in the workplace raises employee morale, provides team building opportunities and a sense of loyalty and pride for their company. The business that donates the greatest amount of items will receive the #1 Contributor plaque, a traveling award, to be displayed at your business for the year, said Lauren Finke, director of the Volunteer Center of Cedar Valley, which coordinates this service. To participate or to find out how to have your business become a partner in the Cedar Valley, contact Lauren Finke at the Volunteer Center of Cedar Valley at 272-2087.

The Volunteer Center of Cedar Valley works to promote and support effective volunteerism and to serve as the resource and coordination center for volunteers and community partnerships.

Please contact Lauren Finke at the Volunteer Center of Cedar Valley to express interest in volunteering at 272-2087. Opportunities are flexible. Volunteer opportunities may also be accessed at www.vccv.org or Volunteer Solutions.