Editorial: What are you doing to be a part of our community?

When a new business moves into our area, one of the biggest pitches that they make is their desire to be part of the community. While many of these businesses follow through with there contributions and outreach, it does bring up an interesting thought to ponder. As residents, what are we doing to be a part of our community?

During Charles City’s Board of Supervisors meeting last night, county leaders were essentially asking people to join organizational boards (i.e. planning commission, Heritage Public Library) as vacancies continue to open up. District 1 supervisor Gilbert Smith even commented that people aren’t volunteering any more, even though they could be retired or part of the youth.

I understand the sentiments and it is just another example how today’s society is viewed. There are plenty of people who contribute for the right cause, but are you doing a part? It’s a concept that has continuously grown over the past few decades.

One of the biggest misconceptions is that we have to go all out to do our part and that we have to invest a great number of resources to give back. Other people look for financial compensation for working a few hours a day.

Growing up, I was taught that sometimes the biggest reward is a “thank you” or “I appreciate it.” Those words continue to be as impactful as many people work behind the scenes to make sure those less fortunate have the things they need. From the annual Providence Forge Thanksgiving Feast to the opening of food pantries in Charles City, there are still opportunities to make a difference and not commit full-time to a cause.

I can speak from the heart when it comes to this issue because I’ve seen many sides of giving back to the community. I’ve watched my father volunteer going on four decades with Charles City County’s Volunteer Fire Department. I’ve seen my mother work at several church functions on the hospitality committee. I have spent numerous hours transporting student-athletes to and from practice to make sure they have an opportunity to participate in sports and spent money from my own pocket to make sure that they have what they need.

As we continue to return to the “new normal,” are you going to make that impact to show how appreciative you are of the opportunity to “live” again? We’ve taken so many things for granted prior to the pandemic and now that we are nearing the end, are you going to impact the community or hinder its growth?

Doing your part could be as simple as making a donation to a scholarship fund, helping set up for the county fair, volunteering to coach a youth team, or even giving one day to pick up litter roadside. Your impact doesn’t have to be repetitive, but it must be felt. People will notice the little things that you do, and they will thank you for it.

We’re at the beginning of a new wave of hope. Let’s make sure that we learn from the lessons volunteers gave us in the past, use them in the present for this generation, and set up our future generations for success and to humble themselves when it comes to strengthening our communities through selfless acts.