In 2002, a year when the economy was down, Fifth Third Bancorp's philanthropy increased by $500,000 over 2001.

Fifth Third announced giving for 2002 totaled $20.5 million, which went to more than 800 organizations in areas where Fifth Third customers and employees live.

About $9.1 million was contributed to more than 32 organizations in Cincinnati in areas of arts and culture, education and social services and community development.

"....Our employees' families live and work where our customers do and we take to heart the notion that if we help build a better community, we build a better bank," said George A. Schaefer Jr., president and CEO.

Volunteers for the Warren County Compeer program donated more than 1,200 hours last year, but more volunteers are needed to be matched with 13 people on the waiting list recovering from mental illness and brain disorders.

Rosalyn Dadas, director, said they have 25 volunteers. She said Compeer volunteers are screened and trained according to nationally recognized principles and requirements.

After that, they are matched with and serve as a friend to a person who suffers a mental or brain disorder.

"They do fun things together, such as a day at Paramount's Kings Island, visiting the zoo, eating out, celebrating birthdays and anniversaries, playing golf and tennis and other typical fun things friends do together," Ms. Dadas said. "The goals of the program are to reduce isolation and loneliness, build self-esteem and sense of security, and develop independence and self-reliance.''

To volunteer, call Ms. Dadas at 459-9551 or 1-800-478-3505.

A $1,000 gift presented to the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County by the Martin Luther King Jr. Coalition will be added to a trust fund established for the purchase of items relating to Dr. King's life and legacy of peace.

The Rev. Fred Shuttlesworth will be at the Main Public Library from 2:30-3:30 p.m. Jan. 20 to sign the book: A Fire You Can't Put Out; The Civil Rights Life of Birmingham's Rev. Fred Shuttlesworth.

The book, written by Andrew Manis, is a compelling true-life story, chronicling some of the greatest battles of the civil rights movement and the heroics of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Four graduates of Roger Bacon High school will be inducted into the school's Hall of Fame Jan. 16 during the 33rd Sports Stag fund raiser.

They are Joe Schlosser, class of 1938; Paul Schildmeyer, 1956; Joe Mollman, 1960, and Tom Maschmeier, 1972.

The Good Fellowship Award will be presented to Father John Bok, and the Bron Bacevich Award will be awarded to former head football coach Jack Lehr.

Allen Howard's "Some Good News" column runs Sunday-Friday. If you have suggestions about outstanding achievements, or people who are uplifting to the Tristate, let him know at 768-8362, at ahoward@enquirer.com or by fax at 768-8340.