Dear 2018 Difference Makers,

Wow! You did it! You made a difference in our community with your volunteer service. We had 338-plus volunteers tackle 42 projects. All in all, you directly touched the lives of 125 residents; and the entire town as well.

Many of you did very physical landscaping clean-ups. There are four new wheelchair ramps in town now; what a life changer for those residents, to be able to go outside without assistance. There were also 11 grab bars installed for safety. There were several heavy duty cleaning jobs – those residents who are unable to get on the floor and clean under sinks, cabinets, or up high in cupboards were thrilled with this contribution.

Carpets and tile were cleaned and windows washed, walls and ceilings were painted, smoke alarms were checked, holiday greetings were created for our Home Delivered Meal recipients and words of thanks for soldiers in Afghanistan and spirits all around were lifted.

Residents who were on the receiving end of all of these and other hard works, have written letters saying that they are very grateful for everything done for them and that they are in awe of the kindness of strangers (that’s you, volunteers!) and that living in our community is a real gift to them.

They still care and take pride in their homes and want very much to remain in their homes. Most of them have hardships including health and financial issues that keep them from being able to provide the services that you generously gave during Make a Difference Day.

Your hard works help make that happen and definitely lifts their spirits. Neighbor helping neighbor – real difference making!

Thank you for your gift of caring. It has been a great privilege to work with you over the past 10 years.

Onward!