From TODAY researcher Michelle Fanucci
Monday, June 22, marks the start of TODAY's special Lend a Hand series with Al Roker. Al is traveling the country to surprise five exceptional charities with truckloads of donations. We're excited to share their stories and show how they're restoring hope and opportunity in their respective communities.
The Lend a Hand team has been working nonstop for months in preparation for this upcoming week. We've been fundraising like crazy to exceed anyone's wildest dreams. In the midst of an ugly recession, and with corporate giving down, this hasn't been an easy task. But we've taken a page from David Copperfield's book of tricks -- and performed magic! Our Penske trucks are filled with computers, clothing, cars and kayaks -- and we're ready to deliver.
This will be a week of recognition -- a week of gracious giving, and endless possibilities. It has been an absolute privilege and joy to work on the Lend a Hand project for the last two years. I've witnessed the power of this series, and have been inspired by its history, significance and growth.
Lend a Hand began in 2002 as a way to jumpstart smaller, lesser-known charities, which lost donations as money was diverted to September 11th philanthropic efforts. In the past seven years, the series has brought Al to 34 cities in 28 states, encouraging viewers to give locally and work to improve their own communities. Lend a Hand started with a $120,000 giveaway and ended last year making history with a million dollars worth of donations. This year, I'm proud to say, we've hit a new record.
Lend a Hand is an example of what we can do, as a community and as a country, to help folks when they're down and in need of a hand to lift them up. This series would not be possible without Al's enthusiasm, energy or spirited drive, nor without the dedication and hard work of our talented producers. And let's not forget the generosity of our participating company donors, without whom we would not have anything to deliver to the communities in need.
To all, we express our heartfelt thanks. Even working through a recession, we have collectively found ways to give.
Be sure to tune in next week and visit TODAYshow.com if your company is interested in donating. I will personally respond, accepting donations all next week.
The way to heal a country is to start with one community at a time. Lend a Hand is the vehicle to get us there. Won't you hop on the Lend a Hand Express with Al?
If you'd like to help, click here!