Cities with heart

USA WEEKEND, in partnership with the Corporation for National & Community Service and Newman's Own, announces the new Make A Difference City Award, which recognizes the volunteer efforts of three cities. Each also receives a $10,000 donation from Newman's Own to the charity of their choice. Meet this year's winners:

Mesa, Ariz.

More than 325 residents turned out for a city-led effort. They filled 12 dumpsters with 39 tons of trash, painted over graffiti and cleaned playground equipment. "Make A Difference Day is a great tool for getting people together," says Mayor Scott Smith. $10,000 from Newman's Own goes to Foundation for Mesa Parks and Recreation.

Trenton, Ohio

The "Small Town With a Big Heart" lived up to its slogan as it rallied more than 300 volunteers. Among the projects: Scouts and others cleaned parks, crews picked up litter and raked seniors' yards. "Volunteers put their hands and minds to the tasks," Mayor Rhonda Freeze says. "But most of all they put their hearts to service." $10,000 from Newman's Own goes to the Middletown Community Foundation.

Wheaton, Ill.

"The energy was out there," Mayor Mike Gresk says of his community's 10th Make A Difference Day effort. A "Stuff-a-Truck" event netted enough food for 200 families for a week. St. Paul Lutheran Church held HIV screenings, and volunteers beautified Adams Park. $10,000 from Newman's Own goes to the People's Resource Center.