Make a Difference Day coming soon

In Larimer County “Make a Difference Day” is misnamed. Because of overwhelming community support, the annual event runs for a week– from October 20 to 26.

Begun as a national day of doing good by USA Weekendmagazine, United Way of Larimer County has been participating in the event for 16 years.

In 2013 more than 3,000 local residents completed more than 100 projects throughout the county. In 2009 Larimer County was recognized as having one of the top ten events in the nation and in 2012 was runner-up for the national All-Star award.

On-line registration is open for the event. Go to www.UnitedWayofLarimerCounty.org and choose from a wide range of ways to volunteer, from serving lunch to the homeless to disaster recovery efforts and home maintenance projects. There’s a project for every age, ability and skill level. You can also contact United Way of Larimer County at 970-7066 or [email protected] with questions or help to get started.

There are several ways to become part of the event. Sign up for an established project or feel free to create your own. Contact United Way to submit your idea and for resources on how to host your own “Make a Difference Day” project.

It’s also possible to support your favorite non-profit project on your own time. United Way has partnered with many organizations to create Service to Go toolkits which describe projects you can make at home and then donate.

Here’s a sampling of organizations that will welcome your efforts: Project Linus, fleece blankets, Homeless Gear, first aid kits, fleece scarves, food bags, Larimer Humane Society, fleece rope dog toys, Volunteers of America, greeting cards, Salvation Army, hygiene kits. For a complete list or organizations that have requested help and for questions contact Jamie Suess at 970-407-7054.