How to Make an Impact This National Make a Difference Day: Simple Ways to Get Involved

Did you know that this Saturday is National Make a Difference Day? On October 26th, like-minded people come together across the U.S. to create positive change and make a lasting impact in their communities. People celebrate this annual event on the fourth Saturday in October.
 
National Make a Difference Day encourages people from all backgrounds to take initiative and create positive change in their communities. Whether volunteering, organizing charitable events, or performing simple acts of kindness, this day inspires everyone to offer their time, resources, and skills to tackle social challenges.
 
Here, we’ll explore the essence of National Make a Difference Day as well as ideas on how you can celebrate the day.
 

What is National Make a Difference Day?

Each year, National Make A Difference Day brings community service to an entirely new level. USA Weekend magazine created the holiday in 1992 in partnership with the nonprofit organization Points of Light. Their goal was to establish a day for individuals to come together and create a real impact through community service.
 
Since it began, National Make a Difference Day has become highly popular and widely participated in. The event gained even more visibility when USA Today became a cosponsor, amplifying its message of volunteerism and civic engagement.
 
With extensive media coverage and the influence of social media, National Make a Difference Day has inspired millions to engage in acts of service and kindness.
 
All across the country, many organizations join forces on the fourth Saturday in October to make a difference, big or small, including:

• The Kiwanis Club 
• Arby’s Foundation
• The Center for Nonprofit Management
• Habitat for Humanity
• Soldiers’ Angels
• Veterans Moving Forward
• National Veterans Wheelchair Games
• Big Brothers Big Sisters
• Boys and Girls Clubs

Ways to Celebrate Make a Difference Day

Giving your time and energy to an organization is one of the simplest ways to contribute and create a positive impact. However, many people feel uncertain about how to help while managing their busy lives. If you find yourself in this situation, we’ve put together a list of 15 ways you can engage with your community and make a difference.
 

1. Help cook and serve a meal at your local homeless shelter

This can be a deeply fulfilling experience that extends beyond just providing food. It allows you to connect with those in your community who may be facing tough circumstances, and your contributions can have a lasting impact on their lives. Consider organizing a group of friends, family, or coworkers to volunteer together.
 

2. Hold a community cleanup

Rally your friends, family, or neighbors to host a community cleanup. Identify spots in your area that need some TLC, like parks, lakes, beaches, or streets. Bring gloves and garbage bags, and work together to enhance your environment.
 

3. Mentor or tutor

If you have a skill or expertise, consider becoming a mentor or tutor. Share your knowledge with students, aspiring professionals, or those looking to learn new skills. Connect with local schools, community centers, or online platforms to offer your help. Your support can significantly impact someone’s life and assist them in reaching their goals.
 

4. Brighten your community

On National Make a Difference Day, you could volunteer at a community garden. If there’s no community garden where you live, you might plant flowers and plants to brighten your neighborhood.
 
If you’re feeling creative, consider making seed packets to share with neighbors, encouraging them to join in and plant their own gardens. Together, these small efforts can cultivate a sense of community and make a lasting impact.
 

5. Give back to the adoption cause

The Lifetime Adoption Foundation supports children, women, and families in domestic open adoption. They support birth mothers through educational scholarships, clothing, toiletries, and assistance with other needs. Donating via PayPal or Venmo is simple and easy! Giving will help a birth mother directly as she searches for her child’s future adoptive family.
 
You may even wish to give a meaningful gift to honor a special person. Has a birth mother changed your life? You can provide a charitable offering in her name! 
 

6. Shop local

You can make a positive difference in your community by supporting local businesses and initiatives. Buy from local shops, restaurants, and farmer’s markets to contribute to the local economy.
 
By choosing to support local artisans, farmers, and businesses, you help create jobs and promote a sense of community. Additionally, participating in local events can strengthen connections among neighbors and improve the energy of your area.
 

7. Send a letter to our troops 

 
Send a letter to an overseas soldier to communicate your support and show your gratitude for their service.
 
Writing a letter is a simple and meaningful way you can say “Thank You” to all who serve. Your kind words could provide encouragement and bring real joy to their recipient. 
 

8. Spread kindness and compassion

You can be friendly to others, smile, and practice gratitude.  Kindness doesn’t have to come from extravagant actions. Often, it’s the little things that make the biggest difference. A simple smile to a stranger, holding the door for someone, lending a hand to those in need, or being a listening ear for someone who feels alone can all make a positive impact.
 
These small gestures can spark a chain reaction, encouraging others to spread kindness as well.
 

9. Donate items for birth mothers

Volunteers at the Lifetime Adoption Foundation assemble labor bags filled with toiletries and items a birth mother will need to make her hospital stay more comfortable. Toiletry items needed include toothbrushes, combs, lip balm, hair ties, socks, shampoo, and conditioner. The adoption nonprofit also needs journals and new or gently used maternity clothing for birth mothers in need.
 
You can mail donations to:
Lifetime Adoption Foundation
P.O. Box 1116
Nevada City, CA 95959
 

10. Vote and encourage others to vote

Voting is one of the best ways to influence change and have your voice heard in shaping the future of your community. Beyond casting your own vote, encouraging others to vote amplifies that impact, creating a ripple effect that can lead to positive change.
 

11. Make a care package for troops stationed overseas

Improve the morale and well-being of the deployed troops worldwide by assembling and shipping a care package. Items like cards and letters should remain unsealed so they’re ready for inspection.
 
Or, you can donate to Support Our Troops online to help them distribute the goods to the troops. Your donation and support help America’s troops do their jobs effectively.
   

12. Express your gratitude to veterans and first responders  

Writing a letter is a heartfelt and meaningful way for volunteers across the country to say “Thank You” to those who serve. During these challenging times, our first responders need our continued support. Taking a moment to share your sincere thoughts can inspire them and provide the encouragement they need to continue their service to our nation.
 
You can also express your gratitude by donating to an organization that offers support and services to veterans. It’s a great way to thank those who have served in the military for their sacrifices and dedication.
 

13. Help the elderly

You could brighten someone’s day by visiting a local retirement home, offering companionship to those who may feel isolated. Another way to help is by volunteering to pick up an older person’s medicine or groceries, easing their burden and showing that they are cared for in the community. Small acts of kindness can have a big impact on their well-being.
 

14. Contribute to your local animal shelter

Donating animal food, blankets, or toys to a local animal shelter is a simple yet powerful way to support animals in need. Many shelters rely on donations from the community to provide basic necessities and comfort for their animals.
 
Your donations can make a shelter environment more comfortable, giving these animals a better quality of life as they await their forever homes.
 

15. Purchase adoption wish list items

For many of you, your lives have been forever blessed by a birth mother’s choice. Your thoughtful contributions to the Lifetime Adoption Foundation help improve the lives of many young women. The Lifetime Adoption Foundation keeps a list of items that they’re always in need of. Check out what’s on the Foundation’s Amazon wish list. Items purchased will go directly to the women they assist!
 
Even small changes can make a difference in your community. If you’re on social media, consider posting about what you did on Make a Difference Day with the hashtag #MakeADifferenceDay.
 
 

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published on October 27, 2017, and has since been updated.