"Make a Difference Days of Caring" October 21-22

SALISBURY, MD -- "Make a Difference Days of Caring," a service week sponsored locally by the United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore and the ShoreCAN Volunteer Center at Salisbury State University, gives citizens from the Lower Eastern Shore of Maryland the opportunity to participate in numerous projects benefiting area non-profit agencies.

During the week of October 21-28, volunteers from Somerset, Wicomico and Worcester counties can contribute their time and energy to over 38 service projects, ranging from environmental preservation to the enhancement of the lives of the needy.

"We are attempting to meet the unmet needs of our non-profit community," said Kathleen Momme, executive director of the area’s United Way and a coordinator of "Make a Difference Days of Caring." "At the same time," said Momme, "we want this to be a fun experience. Anyone can participate, young or old, and families are especially encouraged to sign up."

The event kicks off on Saturday, October 21, with volunteers sought for a pair of service projects. At the Sandy Pines Girl Scout camp in Fruitland, participants will construct four 20' x 20' cabins and build 10 picnic tables. At the nearby Boy Scout campground on Riverside Drive, volunteers will help cut brush and assist in other site enhancing activities.

Last year’s inaugural event attracted over 150 volunteers from the community, including area businesses, labor unions and students, who completed 21 service projects such as painting a play therapy room for children at the Worcester Youth and Family Counseling Center in Berlin to making scarecrows with children from the Big Brothers/Big Sisters program at Royers Farms in Hebron.

Registered volunteers for "Make a Difference Days of Caring" can pick up their complimentary T-shirts at the kickoff event on Saturday, October 21, or at their project site on the

day they volunteer. Pizza and soda will be served from noon-1 p.m. at the Girl Scout camp on October 21.

To register or find out about the numerous volunteer opportunities, contact the ShoreCAN Volunteer Center by October 16 at 410-546-6015 or email hlmilligan@salisbury.edu. Everyone is welcome to participate.