Community Corner

Patch Picks: Making a Difference

These are a few of the non-profit making a difference in the lives of Western Wayne County residents.

Peg McNichol, Patch StaffVerified Patch Staff Badge
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Patch Picks is a feature that runs each Thursday, highlighting editor and reader picks of great local businesses, destinations, services, organizations, ways to spend a day off, and more. 

This week's theme is "Nonprofits Making a Difference" and we're highlighting five Western Wayne County focus on helping others, which in turn makes our community a better place. Do you know of another? Let us know in the comments.

  • Girls on the Run. Based in elementary and middle schools but operating out of the , this organization serves girls in the Plymouth, Canton, Northville, Romulus, and Belleville areas. Girls on the Run teaches preteen girls healthy lifestyles and self-respect though a program which teaches them running skills. To register a girl or volunteer as a coach, go to girlsontherunsemi.org.

  • Snail Mail for Seniors. Since 2007, when Cathy Donaldson realized that her grandmother's fellow nursing home residents weren't getting many visits -- and little to no mail -- she has devoted her time to using donated cards and craft supplies to send out cheery messages. The work gets done with the help of volunteers and donated space at Canton Township's . To get involved, contact Donaldson via Snail Mail For Seniors, P.O. Box 87491, Canton, MI  48187 or email her at snailsmiles@hotmail.com.

  • . First Step is an agency devoted to reducting domestic violence and sexual assault. Services range from temporary emergency housing to community education and victim support. First Step also operates a 24-hour help line for crisis intervention, support and referrals at 734-722-6800, toll-free: 888-453-5900.

  • Plymouth Preservation Network. The Plymouth Presrvation Network is an organization devoted to preserving historic sites in and around Plymouth -- and fights hard to do it. The group got started when plans surfaced to tear down an historic wall in Plymouth's . The group researched the wall's historical significance and raised the money to save -- and put a historical marker to mark its significance. The group's current project? Forming a committee to save the historic .

  • Growth Works. Based in Plymouth and Canton, this organization helps youth and families in Western Wayne County cope with and and find solutions for substance abuse and delinquent behavior. The organization also works closely with schools to provide on-site support for at-risk students. For more information and to find support, go to growth-works.org.

    • Next week's Patch Picks: Unique boutiques in our community that are worth supporting. Put your suggestions in the comments box. And be sure to come back to see our Patchers' picks.

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