Contact: Cindy Ardis Jenkins
Title: Communications Coordinator
Phone: (309) 687-7205

September 16, 2004

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

AREA YOUTH AND COMMUNITY GROUPS TO “MAKE A DIFFERENCE”

Peoria, IL – For the fourth consecutive year, Peoria area youth will be making a difference in the community. Make A Difference Day is Saturday, October 23 at the Riverfront Marketplace in Peoria (in the event of rain, the event will take place inside the RiverPlex).

This year, Make a Difference Day will work in conjunction with Project Linus – a 100% volunteer non-profit organization whose mission is to provide love, a sense of security, warmth and comfort to children who are seriously ill, traumatized, or otherwise in need through the gifts of new, homemade, washable blankets and afghans lovingly created by volunteer “blanketeers.”

Several local children, youth groups and other community groups will participate in Make A Difference Day by making blankets that will be collected and delivered to children who are seriously ill or traumatized in some way – in other words, “children in need of a big hug.” Activities for the day will include blanket drop-off, families and children having the opportunity to make fleece blankets on-sight, face painting, balloons and more.

“To spend time doing something positive and constructive while at the same time making a difference in other people’s lives is very important to me,” said Adrian Young, a senior at Woodruff High School, who is one of two youth spokespersons for Make A Difference Day . The other youth spokesperson for this year is Vance Jordan III, also a senior at Woodruff High School.

Any individual or group interested in participating in Make A Difference Day by making a washable blanket, quilt, comforter, afghan, etc. is encouraged to contact Farrell Davies at the Children’s Home, 687-7275.