Everyone can make a difference.

Volunteers at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Cape Girardeau have made a difference in a number of people's lives through Marillac's Moveables.

The charity program provides such furnishings as beds, couches, tables and chairs to the needy.

It has helped women at the Safe House for Women who left all their possessions behind. The group has aided victims of fires or needy families trying to make a fresh start.

The church and its volunteers have made a tangible difference in people's lives for the last four years.

This kind of extraordinary dedication earned the organization recognition from USA Weekend's Make A Difference Day program.

The volunteers don't participate for recognition. But the Make a Difference award is a great way to say thanks for helping so many people.

Furnishings are donated by individuals and businesses. Volunteers visit yard sales and flea markets looking for bargains. On average, the program assists about 20 families a month.

It is named after Louise de Marillac, who started the Daughters of Charity religious order in France. That order was dedicated to working with the poor and encouraged others to do likewise.

Marillac's Moveables is a tribute to the volunteers and St. Vincent de Paul Church. It certainly provides a worthy model of community stewardship to encourage more people to make a difference.