United Way of Southwest Michigan is looking for volunteers on Nov. 9 to “rake-a-difference” and help local senior citizens winterize their homes by raking leaves and cleaning gutters during the seventh annual Day of Action for Seniors.

“It’s very tough for many people in our community to winterize their homes, and this gives us one day to make a big difference,” said Anna Murphy, president of United Way of Southwest Michigan.

Volunteers have the opportunity to help out in their local community, and can volunteer for a half-day or a full day. Volunteers who work full days will receive a Pizza Hut lunch voucher, and all volunteers will receive a United Way T-shirt for participating.

United Way is asking volunteers to bring rakes, work gloves, leaf blowers, and ladders, if available. United Way will supply leaf bags and other necessities to help get the work done.

All services are free of charge and offered on a first-come, first-served basis for senior citizens 60 years old or older who are physically unable or cannot afford to hire these types of services. United Way hopes to serve more than 200 seniors this year, but this number is dependent on the number of volunteers recruited.

“We receive so much support for this event. It’s great to see the local businesses that donate supplies and other businesses that send teams of volunteers to help out. We love seeing the community come together to help,” said Julee Laurent, volunteer engagement manager with the United Way.

A “Student” Day of Action for Seniors will be hosted from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Nov. 11.

Volunteers and seniors can sign up online by going to uwsm.org/dayofactionforseniors.

Volunteers and seniors have until Oct. 19 to sign up. Seniors may also call (269) 982-1700, ext. 1136, to sign up or request more information.

French Paper Company and McLoughlin Family Foundation are the major sponsors of the event. Other sponsors include Lindberg/MPH, Chemical Bank, Vail Rubber Works, Niles Precision Co. and Modineer Company.

People may learn more about the United Way of Southwest Michigan by visiting uwsm.org.