Spread the love

By Cara Beth Lewis

On the fourth Saturday of October each year, Make A Difference Day is celebrated internationally. This year, Make A Difference Day falls on October 23rd. Each one of us – as citizens, friends, co-workers, and inhabitants of the world – have the opportunity to make a difference, big or small, each day of our lives.

In honor of Make A Difference Day, be conscious of the differences that you make. Smile a little bigger at the cashier in the grocery store, call your Grandma, pick up some litter, or help someone in need. Show those around you that you care about them to make a difference in their lives, even if it is just for a moment.

Many people believe that the world is too big and they are too small to make an impact, but that is not true. Individual contribution is powerful, and it can create a wave of difference-making.

According to nationaltoday.com, “Make a Difference Day was created by “USA Weekend” magazine in 1992 to offer community support and encourage volunteerism across the country. Points of Light, a non-profit organization founded by former U.S. President George H. W. Bush, is the official co-sponsor of Make a Difference Day. Ever since its inception, Make a Difference Day has echoed in 30 countries and has inspired over 30 million volunteer hours.”

Check out these interesting facts about volunteering:

It’s about the endorphins.
Multiple studies have concluded that a single act of volunteering can help people lead happier lives.
College students love to volunteer.
The hottest demographic of volunteers falls in the 18-24-year-old college student category.
Girls trump boys.
Historically, the female gender has been more active in volunteering projects than the males.
Peer pressure works, so keep it up.
40% of all volunteers rise to the occasion after being convinced by a friend or loved one.
It’s a cure for the lonely heart.
As per a survey, the majority of people confessed that they took up volunteering to be a part of a team.

Make A Difference Day is wonderful for many different reasons. It promotes and recognizes volunteering efforts, it raises awareness about individual impact, and it reminds us that helping others and making a positive change is a privilege.

“Be the change you wish to see in the world.” -Mahatma Gandhi