On the morning of Saturday, Oct. 18, hundreds of volunteers from Fountain Hills will come together to assist some of the community’s most vulnerable residents. The event is Make a Difference Day and, if previous years are any indication, the work done that day will have a big impact all around town.

These dedicated individuals will offer services including landscape debris removal, weed control, minor interior and exterior home repairs, wheelchair ramp construction, interior cleaning support, as well as tackling projects at local parks, on school campuses and beyond. 

Now in its 17th year, Make a Difference Day is dedicated to helping residents facing challenges due to age, disabilities, financial hardship or other circumstances that leave them in need of extra support.

Kim Wickland, volunteer supervisor for the Town of Fountain Hills, said the event has become an annual tradition for many participants.

“As Make a Difference Day has grown into a cherished tradition in Fountain Hills, many volunteers return year after year,” she said. “For them, it’s more than just lending a hand — it’s about continuing a legacy that has made a meaningful difference in the place they call home.”

But in order for volunteers to get to work, first organizers need to know who in town could use a little assistance. To that end, Wicklund is calling on the community to help identify residents who would benefit from volunteer projects.

“If you know someone — perhaps a neighbor, a fellow church member or a family member — who could use a helping hand, please encourage them to participate,” Wickland said. “There is no cost involved for those receiving services.”

To request assistance, Wickland can be reached at 480-816-5108 or via email at kwickland@fountainhillsaz.gov. Residential work project requests are due by Sept. 1. Forms are available at Town Hall and the Community Center.

As for those looking to volunteer, registration opens Aug. 11 at fountainhillsaz.gov/madd.

“Volunteering brings people together and deepens our connection to the community,” Wicklund said. “Make a Difference Day is a wonderful opportunity to join neighbors, lend a hand and be part of something meaningful. Whether you're an individual or part of a group, there are a variety of projects — both indoors and outdoors — where your help can make a real difference. When we come together in service, we have the power to create lasting, positive change.”

With the 2025 Make a Difference Day just a few months away, organizers hope everyone will come together to once again prove Fountain Hills is the small town with a big heart.

“The success of Make a Difference Day in Fountain Hills truly reflects our community’s strong spirit of volunteerism,” Wicklund said. “Time and again, residents step up — donating their time and energy to help neighbors in need, support our schools and care for our beautiful public spaces. It’s a powerful reminder of our shared commitment to service.”