More: AmeriCorps leads the way ECHO teens at the YMCA Habitat for Humanity Soaringwords uses positive phrases to inspire ill children For seven years Golden Key chapters have participated "Even tiny efforts are powerful" by Tyra Banks

A series on organizations in the volunteer world

Make A Difference Day

You helped!

3 million people improved communities nationwide on USA WEEKEND's 15th annual day of volunteering.

A POWERFUL HURRICANE could not dampen the spirits of volunteers for the 15th annual Make a Difference Day, as they came out in full force to lend support at local community centers, playgrounds and neighborhoods. They even raised funds for storm victims.

"Give yourself a round of applause for making a difference to your community and your country," first lady Laura Bush wrote in an official greeting to participants in the Oct. 22 event, which was created by USA WEEKEND Magazine with the Points of Light Foundation.

Among the many efforts:
In Bossier City, La., Apollo Elementary School fifth-graders concluded a weeklong book drive for New Orleans schools. "They're so fired up," said teacher Dawn Coker. The day's project is a fifth-grade privilege, and pupils consider it the year's highlight.

In Nashville, 90 employees from 38 First Tennessee bank branches and about 30 family members and friends stripped wallpaper, painted, loaded hay and landscaped at three non-profits.

In Washington, D.C., more than 200 volunteers finished a reclamation effort that began on Make A Difference Day 2001. Among the accomplishments in the Watts Branch Park area: A nightclub where Motown singer and D.C. native Marvin Gaye once performed transformed into a community center.

In 36 cities in 17 states, Citigroup offices hammered nails for Habitat for Humanity, cleaned up neighborhoods, and raised money for Katrina victims and other causes.

In Chicago, 32 Baird & Warner real estate offices closed for the day so employees could complete projects, including a playground renovation at a family shelter. The effort also celebrated the family-run company's 150th birthday.

Tyra Banks, syndicated talk show host, led her audiences and L.A. staff to collect professional attire for Dress for Success, a non-profit that helps disadvantaged women enter the workforce.
-- Laura Greenspan