I had the good fortune to be in attendance at the Salute to Leaders last week as Clermont 20/20 hosted a banquet to honor volunteers throughout the county.
Those who were recognized were just regular folks who have dedicated their lives to the betterment of their communities and spent countless volunteer hours on worthy causes to help others. They don’t do volunteer work for recognition, but out of a sense of duty and because they truly care.
We hear so many bad reports on the news about evil things that people do to one another and it was like a breath of fresh air hearing good reports about some of the inspiring things that people are doing to help one another.
I think it’s a shame that we don’t broadcast more goodness. We, in the media are missing an opportunity to encourage and uplift people especially during this time of economic upheaval and recession.
In case you missed the salute, let me just give you a sampling. I won’t mention their names because I might leave someone out, but let me give you a bit of good news. There was a Milford business man who provided food, drink and shelter for firefighters who were putting out a fire near his business and he also held a fundraiser to help the displaced residents.
A group of Vietnam Veterans maintain the memorial in Union Township and hold a 24 hour memorial service each year to honor those who serve in the military.
A Williamsburg trustee has worked many volunteer hours to help update his local fire department and EMS services.
A young man in Wayne Township devised a plan to help keep the roadways clear in bad weather for the residents.
A former trustee in Washington Township was honored posthumously for his dedication to the upkeep of roads where he lived and his desire to help promote and support the fire and rescue squad.
A Tate Township man spent much of his time preparing and planning for recreational needs around Bethel.
A Stonelick Township retiree now volunteers his time and talent to help keep the township office equipment and computers running smoothly.
Pierce Township has benefited from the volunteer efforts of an architect to help with zoning issues.
A retired fire chief from Ohio Township has passed his love of service to the community on to his two sons who are both now serving.
Looking after the needs of her life-long community, Monroe Township has a volunteer who feeds, visits those who are sick and plans recreation for her neighbors.
More than 900 families each year benefit from a Miami Township woman who just wanted to help a few families with food and gifts at Christmas.
There were many other positive stories shared during the event. Those honored were from various walks in life, from business professionals to farmers, different ages from teens to the elderly, differing interests from recreation to communication, but a common bond that seemed to run through their hearts was selfless service. They all want to give back to their communities and don’t expect anything in return.
We could all learn a lesson from these amazing people and their desire to make a difference. Thank you volunteers, even though we don’t always acknowledge you, we do appreciate all your hard work and dedication.