By HDN Editorial Board
Last week's Great Northern Fair was a big hit as always. A lion's share of the credit has to go to Mike Spencer, his staff and the Fair Board. Recognition also has to go to the folks behind most every stand. Everyday people, who annually donate their most precious possession, time. The fair wouldn't be anywhere near the event without every one of the volunteers who annually pitch in to make it a success 4-H leaders, Jaycees and service clubs, church groups, plus the rest of the volunteers too numerous to name.
Havre It's the People is our town motto, and our hats are off to those people who gave their time at the fair to help a host of local causes.
Unfortunately those people are becoming more and more familiar to us, because it seems like no matter what the cause or event, the same people always show up to pitch in.
While we think it's super that these civic-minded folks give of their time, most wouldn't mind sharing the opportunity to help with others. These folks also have families, jobs, businesses and hobbies that they put aside to help others. We think it is high time for the rest of the community to step up and pitch in.
We have heard all the excuses already: "I've done my share; it is time for someone else to help." "They have more time than I have." "They don't have anything else to do." "I give more than my share to charities." "My taxes go to take care of those people."
The list of selfish excuses goes on and on.
The ability to pitch in is available to everyone. Nowhere is it written that you must have a kid in Little League to coach. There is no quota for volunteerism; it doesn't end when you reach a certain level or age.
There is too much to do for us to depend on the same few. Get off the couch and get involved. Join a service club, pitch in at the Chamber, volunteer at school or church. There are so many opportunities to help our community. How can anyone sit idly by?
Lead by example. Encourage your children and grandchildren to pitch in; almost everyone has the ability to do something.
The old adage that it is better to give than to receive is as relevant as ever.
