United Way of Southwest Michigan’s 15th Annual Rake a Difference Event In Need of Volunteers

United Way of Southwest Michigan is gearing up for its annual Rake a Difference event, set to take place on Thursday, November 13, across Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties. The organization is calling on volunteers to step forward and help make a difference in the lives of local seniors by assisting with leaf raking and gutter cleaning.

Rake a Difference is a vital community event where volunteers come together to support senior citizens who may struggle to maintain their yards. The initiative not only helps keep neighborhoods clean and safe but also fosters connections between volunteers and the seniors they assist.

“Rake a Difference is simply a big success because the teams of volunteers throughout each community make it happen,” said Debbie Ramirez, Director of Impact & Volunteer Engagement at United Way of Southwest Michigan. “It amazes me each year how teams find a way to make this a fun teambuilding event while also helping community members.”

Volunteer sign-ups are now open through October 17 at RakeADifference.com. No prior experience is needed, and all necessary supplies—including rakes, gloves, and leaf bags—will be provided.

In addition to seeking volunteers, United Way is also encouraging seniors in Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties to sign up for assistance. Seniors or their loved ones can simply call 269-932-3554 during regular business hours to request help with yard work. Due to high demand, seniors are encouraged to sign up as soon as possible before September 30, and some seniors may be placed on a waiting list.

The 15th Annual Rake a Difference event is made possible with support from the AEP Foundation, Gast Manufacturing, French Paper Company, Midwest Energy & Communications, Invenergy, Whirlpool Corporation, Michigan Works! Berrien, Cass, Van Buren, Silver Beach Pizza, BluCat Consulting, Comcast NBCUniversal, Hungerford CPAs, Niles Precision Company, Invenergy, and Vail Rubber Works.

In 2024, over 1,200 volunteers stepped up to help across the three county area to impact over 350 seniors. Most of those volunteers and seniors were in Berrien County, but the need in Cass and Van Buren counties are just as great. Ramirez is especially calling on volunteers willing to help in those two counties.

“Since we opened the phones on Tuesday morning, it’s become clear to me the need for volunteers to help these seniors is growing,” Ramirez said. “Our goal here is to serve everyone, including our waitlist. I know Southwest Michigan will come through.”

About United Way of Southwest Michigan
United Way of Southwest Michigan works to create a united & resilient community where everyone contributes, belongs and thrives. We harness resources from corporate, nonprofit, and public partners to address our community's most pressing challenges and make lasting change. Join us in giving, advocacy, and volunteering by visiting uwsm.org