Reach out a helping hand

It seems like every week or month has a theme to it these days, and next week is no different as it is National Volunteer Week April 7-13.

Living in Thermopolis, or any small town, it’s easy to see volunteerism in action. Many events and organizations rely on volunteers to happen. Our cookie jar auctions, updating of our Christmas decorations, cleaning of our downtown area and meal service at the Hot Springs County Senior Center are just a few examples of volunteerism in action.

And that’s not even including our largest volunteer organization, the Thermopolis Volunteer Fire Department, celebrating its centennial this year. The snows are finally coming to an end and grasses are drying out, meaning things are going to start picking up those brave folks who volunteer their time to keep our town, county and, when called upon, the surrounding area safe.

I’d like to take this opportunity to extend my appreciation to all of the volunteers who help make Thermopolis the wonderful community it is, and I encourage you to do the same — not just in this next week, but year-round. Volunteering is an often thankless job and a bit of recognition can go a long way.

If you have the time, don’t forget that volunteers are always welcome and there is always a niche for skills you have, even if its just a pair of hands to add to a project or listening to someone share a story.