The 12th Make a Difference Day, a day of community service for volunteers of all ages, will be held in the City of Venice on Saturday, Oct. 25, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Landscaping, raking, cleaning and litter collection events are planned at over 25 City parks, beaches, and public spaces. Each year, hundreds of volunteers turn out for this citywide community service effort, saving the City thousands of dollars and benefiting our local environment. At the last MADD in February (postponed from 2024 due to hurricanes Helene and Milton), over 370 volunteers participated.

Jim Foubister of One Christ Won City and Together We Can is the chief organizer of the event, with assistance from City Public Works staff. Volunteers are invited to enjoy a complimentary lunch following the event at 11 a.m. Oct. 25 at West Blalock Park, 401 Pensacola Road at Nassau St. S., across from the Venice Museum and Venice Community Center.

Groups and teams can register with Jim by calling 941-223-1771 or emailing jimfouby@gmail.com. Individuals can register online at www.togetherwecan.life; look for the pop-up registration button.

Interested volunteers can also just come to the Venice Community Center, 326 Nokomis Ave. S., at 7:30 a.m. Oct. 25 to help. All volunteers should drive to the south side of the building near Turin St. to receive their assignments and a T-shirt. This will be a drive-thru; you do not have to get out of your vehicle.

MADD volunteers should wear old, comfortable clothing and work shoes, and bring sunscreen. Other supplies, including drinking water and gloves, will be furnished.

Thank you in advance for your help!