SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN — There is just one more week left to sign up for United Way of Southwest Michigan’s annual Day of Action for Seniors.

Before winter hits, raking the yard and cleaning out gutters is a vital step to ensuring spring snow melt does not cause water damage to a home or lawn. Many area seniors try to accomplish this work on their own, putting them at risk for falls and serious injury, said United Way officials.

Those willing are being asked to join United Way in giving local seniors a helping hand when prepping for winter.

On Nov. 8, hundreds of area volunteers will mobilize to help seniors in Berrien and Cass Counties rake and bag leaves and clean gutters as part of United Way’s annual Day of Action for Seniors. This day serves seniors, age 60 and older, who are physically unable to perform yard work or can’t afford to pay for services.

To sign up a company team, a church group or some friends, visit volunteer.uwsm.org.

United Way is also asking that volunteers consider sharing the need on social media pages and, through email.

The more volunteers United Way has, the more seniors it can serve, said officials.

United Way officals said they would like to thank major sponsors: The Home Depot, Indiana & Michigan Power, French Paper Company, Gast and the McLoughlin Family Foundation.

Other sponsors include: Andrews University, Chemical Bank, Hastings Mutual Insurance Company, Kemner Iott Benz, Kinexus, Lindberg/MPH, Niles Precision Company, Plante Moran, Silver Beach Pizza, United Federal Credit Union and Vail Rubber Works.