Friday, October 13, 2006
Contact: Spence Jackson, 573-751-0290
Blunt Encourages Missourians to Make a Difference
JEFFERSON CITY–Gov. Matt Blunt today encouraged Missourians to join in with millions of Americans to participate in Make A Difference Day on Saturday, October 28.
“Whether it is taking part in volunteer projects to improve their communities or helping neighbors in need, Missourians are known for their generosity and compassion,” Blunt said. “I encourage everyone to make a difference by participating in Make A Difference Day.”
Blunt is serving as honorary chairman for Missouri’s part in the largest community service effort in the nation.
All over the state, Missourians are helping those in need. One example is Jim and Judy Huff of Rogersville, who coordinated a project to provide winter coats to a local shelter. The couple purchased from garage sales, repaired, laundered and boxed 162 coats coupled with matching gloves.
“It's just a blessing to us to give back,” says Judy, who has before depended on friends’, neighbors’ and co-workers’ generosity.
Last year, a record 3 million volunteers participated nationwide, and an estimated 28 million people-in-need benefited. Projects have ranged from a countywide cleanup involving thousands of people to a mentoring program in which members of a sorority provided one-on-one support to 35 underprivileged children.
For more information about Make A Difference Day, please call the Make A Difference Day Hot Line at 800-416-3824, the Missouri Community Service Commission at 877-210-7611, or visit http://www.makeadifferenceday.com.
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