BROOKFIELD, CT—When Brookfield resident Peter Brady retired from his “regular” job, he had no idea that what he started as an after retirement ministry would soon turn into a full-time volunteer gig that would help thousands in need in the Greater Danbury area.

This fall they are planning their 20th annual “Rake n Bake” community service outreach program and it’s sure to be bigger and better than ever. The community event and its organizer helps the elderly and homebound by organizing a team of volunteers to go out and rake and clean up people’s yards. The nonprofit Brady founded has helped countless local folks not only with yard cleanup but also with buying food, making utility bill payment for those in need, helping people housing, purchasing wheelchairs, scooters and so much more.

In a newsletter to his helpers and volunteers, Brady said:

“You’ve all no doubt noticed those little objects falling from the trees, making a mess of your driveway, deck, and car. That can only mean one thing…’Rake and Bake’ is back!! It’s time to register for HDHM’s signature volunteer event of the season – this year marking our 20th year helping needy citizens of Brookfield and surrounding towns who would not otherwise be able to handle this basic home cleanup task themselves.

I will be running this year’s event for Pete and I will make sure the experience is as helpful to our clients and meaningful to our volunteers as in years past. YOU and literally hundreds of others make this event happen each year by providing the raking energy – but it’s success really depends on one single favor you can do for us right now…  signing up early.

Though the actual raking happens all on one day (this year on November 16th), it takes our hard-working committee members several weeks to coordinate the many teams, equipment and properties to prepare. Please go to hdhm.org and click on the Rake/Bake link to register right away.”