Patch Editor Wants to Lend a Helping Hand

Next Thursday, I'm not even taking my laptop out of my bag, and don't call me if there's breaking news because I'm keeping my iPhone off (OK, maybe I'll leave it on vibrate).

I'm taking the day off. Well, sort of.

As part of Patch's Give 5 Program, Patch employees nationwide are asked to spend at least five days a year volunteering in their community. The first suggested day to help out in 2011 is Thursday, Feb. 17.

So, Caledonia, I'm all yours. Maybe the High School newspaper needs some help brainstorming stories or an English teacher needs some help explaining why the verb is the motor of a sentence (my favorite topic). Or maybe there's a church that needs help setting up tables and chairs for a weekend rummage sale or event. Bingo or checkers at a local retirement home? I'm in!

I'm sure there's someone out there that needs assistance, could use an extra set of hands or just wants to show me the good work that their organization accomplishes every day. I'll do just about anything, as long as I'm helping the people of Caledonia, albeit in a small way.

Maybe I'll end up spending all day in one location. Or maybe there will be two or three awesome businesses or organizations that I can split my day between.

Either way, I'm really looking forward to this great opportunity, and I'll leave it up to you, the readers, to spread the word and let folks know that I want to and am willing to help.

Leave your suggestions in the comment box below, or email me at denise.lockwood@patch.com. I'll make a decision by Wednesday morning, and maybe I'll even write a story about my experiences and post it the next day.