Residents all over the community can make a difference during Make A Difference Day on Saturday, April 26.

The event is designed to be a community cleanup of alleys, rights-of-way and other locations.

“The character, the way someone feels about their community is based on how it looks,” said Chuck Ebner of Community Development.

The program is meant to provide a “spring cleaning” for the community, teach children about the importance of keeping their surroundings clean and have a little fun along the way.

Those having difficulty getting rid of bulky items can do so at no cost during an “Open Disposal” on Friday and Saturday, April 25 and 26.

Bulky items can be dropped off at the Public Works facility, 2701 Sulphur Springs Road, from 7 a.m., to noon. In addition to bulky items, they will also be taking computers, paper and cardboard for recycling.

Items that will be accepted include furniture, mattresses, broken appliances, auto parts, water heaters, tires, electronic equipment, air conditioners and other bulky items. Appliances that will be accepted include washing machines, stoves, dryers, water heaters, refrigerators and freezers.

No commercial or household hazardous waste will be accepted at the facility. Items such as batteries, pesticides, pool chemicals, motor oil and paint will not be accepted.

Make a Difference Day kicks off at 8 a.m. Saturday with the community cleanup.

The city is currently signing up teams from area businesses, civic organizations, school groups and churches to participate.

Each participant receives a commemorative t-shirt; bottle of water and visor along with a free lunch after the cleanup is completed.

The lunch will include Sloppy Joes, macaroni salad, chips, soda and a cold treat.

Hot dogs will also be available at the event. A team or team leader can register for the event early by contacting the Community Development office at 805-4047. They can also register at the event, at the Douglas Visitors Center, by 8:30 that day.

Each team will be designated an area to clean and city workers will be going around picking up the trash.

 From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Visitors Center, the meals will be served and there will be a number of environmentally themed games and water slides for kids to enjoy. Kids may also bring in their coloring books to be judged and receive prizes.

The coloring books were inserted in the Daily Dispatch on Tuesday, and additional copies are available at City Hall and at The Daily Dispatch, 530 11th Street.

For more information, contact Community Development at 805-4047 or The Daily Dispatch at 364-3424.