Mitzvah Day 2014 is almost here, and the Times & Independent Series is working with organisers to encourage readers to take part in meaningful, enjoyable challenges.

Teams of volunteers across north London have already begun signing up to do a good deed between November 14 and 16.

In 2013, 35,000 took part – at least 10,000 more than in previous years. This year, it is hoped 500 more organisations, including offices, schools, mosques, churches and synagogues, will take part.

Some of this year’s projects include collectathons of toys, clothes, toiletries for various charities, collecting donations to food banks or cooking for the homeless.

Mitzvah Day projects are designed to be inclusive, using expert advice from leading disability organisations.

Laura Marks, Founder of Mitzvah Day, said: “What all of our projects have in common is that they are all underpinned by the desire to get together and give – our thousands of volunteers of all ages and faiths return year in and year out because they appreciate the value of collective social action and how it plays a strong part in repairing what is sometimes a broken world.

“We’re delighted to yet again be partnering with the Times Group and value how this partnership plays a meaningful role in fostering local community relationships, connecting people of all faiths and none and in many ways making the society and environment around us a bit brighter.”

Keep an eye out on the Times and Independent Series websites for news on Mitzvah Day activities taking place in Barnet over the coming weeks.

To sign up for your project this year, visit Mitzvah Day’s website for project ideas: www.mitzvahday.org.uk/ or contact Naomi@mitzvahday.org.uk