LEE -- Lee Academy has announced the date of their third annual "Make A Difference Day" as Saturday, August 2, 2008. The day will start at 7:30 a.m. and volunteers are welcome to come for the full day or only a few hours - whatever their schedules will allow.

Lee Academy alumna and Trustee member Gail Mallett Rae '56 has once again stepped up to organize the day-long event which, traditionally, has resulted in dozens of projects being completed in time for the start of the new school year. Past projects have included the construction and staining of 4 new baseball and softball dugouts, interior and exterior painting, brush removal, cleaning, tree and shrub plantings, mulching, and more.

A free BBQ lunch will be provided courtesy of LA chef Russ Brown, and all necessary tools to complete each job will be provided.

"Although the need is what started us organizing 'Make A Difference Day', the volunteers have really come to enjoy the day as one to reconnect with their neighbors and do some good for Lee Academy", said Rae. "It feels good to give back to the community and know you're making a difference."

Lee Academy Headmaster Bruce Lindberg praised past volunteers' commitment and enthusiasm, saying, "It warms the heart to see so many folks come together for a common, selfless cause." He added, "we appreciate that so many alumni and local community members care enough to volunteer so that the school looks its best when students arrive back on campus in September."

Founded in 1845, Lee Academy serves local day students from twenty-three Maine towns, and boarding students from across Maine, the United States and world. Recent boarding students have come from sixteen states, seven Asian countries, five Central American/Caribbean countries, ten European countries, Australia, Israel and Canada.

Learn more about Lee Academy at www.leeacademy.org.