Lake County Gazette

As winter nears, the Village of Deerfield is promoting its TeenConnect matchmaking program that links teens willing to do yard work, including snow removal, for residents who could use the help.

TeenConnect is the village's name for its growing list of local teens who have made themselves available for leaf raking, lawn mowing, snow shoveling and other outdoor maintenance jobs. The list also includes details such as availability, the type of work the teen is interested in, and what they expect to be paid for such services.

Residents who have difficulty keeping up with outdoor chores around their properties or who can't afford professional contractors are encouraged to take advantage of the program by contacting the village for a copy of the TeenConnect list. They then can contact teens who seem like they might be a good fit and work out details such as pay and schedules with the teens.

Applications for teens who are not already part of the program are available on the village's website or through the Village Manager's office. Participation in the program by teens under 18 requires the signature of a parent or guardian.

For more information on the program, go to www.deerfield.il.us or call