Painting the homes of seniors, conducting scores of neighborhood clean ups and providing graffiti training have earned the Neighborhood Services Department (NSD) a Difference-Maker Award by the Make A Difference organization.

NSD was one of 15 community and corporate entities Make A Difference honored recently for partnering with the nonprofit organization on successful neighborhood and community improvement efforts.

NSD also was recognized for its longtime support of and participation in "A Day for Downtown," an annual event sponsored by Make A Difference that mobilizes community members for a rewarding day of service to benefit the downtown Phoenix community.

"Neighborhood Services has been an unfailing partner that has never said no to our efforts in making a positive change in the community," said Rhonda Oliver, Make A Difference president and chief executive officer.

Make A Difference empowers people to become engaged, take action and create positive change in their communities.