Give Back Cincinnati, a nonprofit group made up of 290 young professionals who volunteer to do community service, is picking up support from businesses.

        “I think they have seen the past accomplishments of Give Back Cincinnati, and now want to be a part of its future,” said Zack Zitko, public relations director of Give Back Cincinnati. Mycom, Procter & Gamble, Fifth Third Bank, Gold Star Chili and Home Depot are among the companies that have given support by providing materials and seed money.

        “Mycom was one of our original corporate supporters,” Mr. Zitko said. “They aided in the development of the organization's logo, Web site and marketing materials. Those marketing efforts, compiled with the work of the members, has become apparent, and is paying dividends for the group.”

        Procter & Gamble has pledged $7,500 over the next two years. Fifth Third Bank has given the group $1,500.

        Gold Star Chili has offered to provide food at all of the 2002 calendar events. Home Depot has opened a debit-style account for the organization from which needed supplies will be donated.

        Mr. Zitko said young professionals interested in volunteering and sponsoring an event should contact the group at www .givebackcincinnati.org.

        Remaining activities for this year include a bingo night for seniors April 13; a paint-the-town project June 8; painting and cleaning at Roberts Paideia School, 1700 Grand Ave., Price Hill, Aug. 17, and planning a day of activities for the Children at the St. Joseph Orphanage on Oct. 5.

        Mr. Zitko said they look for projects where people can get together, do community service, and enjoy themselves socially.

        Free Colorado blue spruce trees will be given to each person who joins the National Arbor Day Foundation during February.

        To become a member of the foundation and receive the free trees, contact Ten Free Colorado Blue Spruce Trees, National Arbor Day Foundation, 100 Arbor Ave., Nebraska City, NE 68410 by Feb. 28.

        The free trees are part of the Foundation's Trees for America Campaign.

        They have silver-blue-green color and compact, conical shape. They can be used as individual ornamentals, an energy-saving windbreak, a privacy screen or as living Christmas trees.

        The trees will be shipped postpaid at the right time for planting between March 1 and May 31 with planting instructions. The trees are guaranteed to grow. They are 6 to 12 inches tall. If they do not grow, they will be replaced free.

        “We usually check the area and determine when is the best time to send the trees,” said Robert Smith, member service director. “Probably, shipments to Cincinnati will be sometime in April.”

       Allen Howard's “Some Good News” column runs daily except Saturdays. If you have suggestions about outstanding achievements, or people committing random acts of kindness, let him know at (513) 768-8362; at ahoward@enquirer.com; or by fax at (513) 768-8340.
       

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