Brandon Twp.- In a week, more than 200 volunteers will clean about 48 yards, wash windows and do light chores for senior citizens and disabled adults in the township.
Jeannie McCreery, who has organized the annual effort now known as ‘Teens and Seniors, Rocking and Raking,? is amazed at how many want to help and is happy to provide the opportunity.
‘It gives to kids the feeling they get only when they do something good for others,? she said. ‘We need to provide these opportunities for kids and look how many kids want to help. It’s gotten so big, now I need help.?
McCreery is seeking support from the community in the form of donations of soda pop, individual snack packs, garbage bags, window cleaner and general cleaner for the volunteers, who will work for several hours May 8.
The annual cleanup program started with just eight volunteers and two yards in 2000. McCreery depends on area businesses and residents to help supply the volunteers? lunch during the workday, and is thankful for sponsors this year like Frosty Boy of Ortonville (hot dogs), MacPhee’s Restaurant (hot dog buns), Seymour Lake United Methodist Church (food), and Maxine Stockley (homemade cookies). Still, more is needed and she hopes the community can come through to support the volunteers? efforts.
‘I’m appealing to the community to support this project as you have in the past by donating just one item,? McCreery said. ‘This project is important to seniors who have difficulty weeding flower beds, mowing, raking leaves, washing windows, moving heavy lawn furniture from storage, etc.?
To join the list of sponsors, make a donation, or request yard cleanup, call Jeannie McCreery at 248-627-2851 or Annette Beach at 248-627-6447.