Cleaning up Farrington and Kailua high schools. Fixing up senior citizens' quarters. Setting up a training area for service dogs.

Whatever your good-deed inclination, today's the day to indulge, as millions of people nationwide join in Make a Difference Day.

The 17th annual Make a Difference Day is sponsored by USA Weekend and Points of Light & Hands On Network. Paul Newman and the Newman's Own Foundation also fund $100,000 in national awards; $10,000 donations will be chosen by 10 honorees.

How can you take part? Go to www.makeadifferenceday.com and search the DAYtaBANK for a project in your neighborhood — you can choose from 15 events on O'ahu, the Big Island and Maui. Many are still accepting volunteers. There are marsh cleanups. Supply drives for homeless shelters. National events with a local affiliate. If you're a pet lover, head to Kahuku for an ongoing project preparing the grounds for a kennel and dog run for service dog puppies. In Hilo people can help finish a Habitat for Humanity house.

Last year around O'ahu, officials estimated that about 500 people showed up for projects, taking part in activites such as fixing up an Easter Seals facility to cleaning up Kapakahi Stream in Waipahu.