Patch is running a new weekly feature called Patch Picks, highlighting editor and reader picks of great local businesses, destinations, services, organizations, ways to spend a day off, and more. This week Patch Picks: Top 5 nonprofits making a difference.

1.Dexter Lions Club

The Scoop: The Dexter Lions Club recently chipped in to purchase a new digital camera to conduct eye screenings for children in Washtenaw County. The eye screenings are part of the club's core mission to help the blind and visually impaired.

2.Dexter Rotary Club

The Scoop:  The Dexter Rotary Club in connection with Dexter Community Schools Interact Club is working to help poor communities ravaged by natural disasters by raising funds to build temporary shelters called "Sisal Houses." Sisal can be used to create a low cost house using fiber from the agave plant combined with resin to form a natural fiberglass product.

3. Educational Foundation of Dexter

The Scoop: The Educational Foundation of Dexter provide financial support for innovative and creative educational projects that cannot be funded by the school district. The Educational Foundation is hosting its annual fundraiser, "A Night On Our Town" on March 19. For tickets contact Jennifer Sortor at jennifer.sortor@hotmail.com or  call 734-424-2751.

4. Dexter Knights of Columbus Council 2959

The Scoop: The Dexter Knights of Columbus are very active in the community, often hosting events that benefit several organizations in Washtenaw County, including the Red Cross, Dexter Area Fire Department, Dexter Community Schools Special Education, and St. Louis School in Chelsea. The Knights will hold their annual Lenten fish fry from Feb. 25 through April.

5. Dexter Kiwanis Club

The Scoop: Kiwanis is a service club dedicated to improving the community, primarily by funding educational projects for local schools and scholarships for local students. Its members can be seen around town during all major events, including Dexter Daze, where the club raffles off a $10,000 cash prize every year.