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KIRKSVILLE, MO. -- Everyone is watching what they spend and cutting back in these difficult economic times.

Our Fact Finder team wondered what impact the recession is having on local charitable events. Fact Finder spoke with Girl Scout officials and Relay for Life organizers to learn how the economy effected their annual events this weekend.

Girl Scout leaders say door-to-door donations for their April Showers program were down this year.

“We've also done some drives at churches and a few schools in the area too. So we've seen quite a large number of items come in through those drives. So I'm hoping that'll make up for our neighborhood drives,” said April Showers District Chair Kelly Freeland.

Relay for Life organizers tell Fact Finder they're also feeling the pinch of the economy.

But it's not all bad news.

Officials say that although some people weren't able to give because of the recession, others who have never donated before are stepping up to contribute. And they say that any donation is welcome, because every dollar makes a difference.