At a time when charitable giving is down around the country, volunteers came out in droves to help support the Detroit Heat's On program last month.

A collaboration between union plumbers and pipe fitters and contractors with the Plumbing and Mechanical Contractors of Detroit (PMC) brought out 232 volunteer trades workers, servicing more than 100 homes on Oct. 19. It was probably the highest turnout ever for the event.

"I've been out every year for the last 10 years," said Larry LaDochi, a pipe fitters Local 636 member. "It's just once a year, so the time is no big deal. And the people you help are very grateful." Added volunteer Mike Daugherty of Plumbers Local 98, volunteering for the third time, "It's a way for us to give back to the community. People appreciate it, even if it's just stopping a toilet from running."

The volunteers obtained assignments from the PMC office, then drove off to fix plumbing and heating problems for poor, elderly and disabled people. Smoke detectors were also installed.

About 1,000 homes have been visited since the program started 11

"We'd like to recognize the partnership between the unions and the contractors," United Way for Southeast Michigan's Virgil Carr told the volunteers. "And when you look at all the people who need help, this event is extraordinarily needed. More than 100 families will see this day as Christmas, and many of you as Santa Claus."