Neighbors helping neighbors during Make a Difference Day

April 23, 2011

Spring is all about rebirth and beautification. Hundreds of community members have pledged their time to help make Whitewater look its best during the sixth annual Make a Difference Day on Friday, April 29, from noon to 4 p.m.

Make a Difference Day is a national day of service marked by neighbors helping neighbors in their community.

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, the Whitewater Unified School District and the City of Whitewater are working together to offer a variety of community service projects.

Last year, more than 600 volunteers completed projects at 45 different sites, totaling more than 1,400 hours of service in just one day. Projects this year include trash cleanup along highways, sidewalks, railroads and bike trails; outdoor chores including raking, mulching, weeding, planting and painting; school improvements; and assisting local churches and helping the elderly.

With spring blooming, graduation nearing and other outdoor events approaching, Whitewater should look its best, said Laura Hall, a member of the planning committee for Make a Difference Day.

One of the projects includes repainting several maps of the United States on elementary schools' playground blacktops.

"The maps of the states provide playground fun and are an excellent educational tool," said Hall.

Volunteers will also help paint a mural on Studio 84 in downtown Whitewater. Studio 84 provides experiences in visual arts, theater, dance and music for the community, specializing in working with people with disabilities.

"We want to create an environment that acts as a creative muse, where people can be inspired," said Hall.
Also during Make a Difference Day, about 1,500 donated trees will be planted around Whitewater.

"We have so many different projects and we need all the volunteers we can get," said Hall. "Volunteering is so great; it gives you a sense of ownership and pride."

Check-in begins at 11:15 a.m. in Starin Park. Participants receive a free T-shirt and verification of community service hours. After the afternoon of hard work, a celebration at the park will allow volunteers to relax, share stories from the day and enjoy free food.

For more information, see the Make a Difference Day website.

See the photo gallery below for pictures of last year's event.