TODAY And Al Roker 'Lend A Hand' Beginning 6/21

"Today's" Al Roker is packing up the Penske truck once again to hit the road for the annual "Lend a Hand Today" trip. In its ninth consecutive year, "Lend A Hand" continues its mission to help small charities across the country that work towards improving conditions in their communities. Roker's goodwill road trip kicks off Monday, June 21 in San Francisco, Calif. The trip continues throughout the week in Bozeman, Mont. (Tuesday), Des Moines Iowa, (Wednesday), Memphis, Tenn. (Thursday), and Rye, N.H. (Friday). This year, one special surprise charity located in a city in need will receive a "Lend a Hand" donation.

At each "Lend a Hand Today" stop, Roker will spend time throughout the broadcast at the city's charitable organization and introduce its efforts to "Today" viewers. Then Roker, with the help from several generous companies, including Gymboree, Expo, Columbia Sportswear Company, Marvell, Loews, Ethan Allen, JanSport, Western Union, Sara Lee, Kool-Aid, Toyota, GM and Glidden Paint, will present the charity with scores of essential items it needs to continue helping and serving its community.

Following the "Lend a Hand" tradition, Roker will deliver the new supplies to the charities by way of a Penske trunk. "Today" has raised more than $2 million in donations so far for this year's trip. With more on the way, "Today" is expected to have its biggest "Lend a Hand" yet. After each stop, viewers can log on to TODAYshow.com for more information on each organization and how they can help. In addition, a complete list of the companies donating to "Lend a Hand" will be available on the website.

Jim Bell is the executive producer of "Today" (Monday - Friday, 7-11 a.m.). Jackie Olensky is the coordinating producer responsible for the "Lend a Hand Today" series.