The helpers -- In honor of National Volunteer Week

Dear Editor

A wise man once said "When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, 'Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.'" That wise man was Mr. Rogers, and his wisdom has truly struck in light of the tragic events lately. With all of the madness and destruction, the one constant through it all has been stories of heroism, acts of courage and a community brought together by tragedy.

This week is celebrated across the country as National Volunteer Week. It's a time where we seek to inspire, honor and appreciate those who give of themselves in service to others. Everywhere I look, I see these helpers. I see the helpers who run towards the danger to help, instead of away from it. I see those who leave their families in the middle of the night to help a family whose home is burning down. I see others who put their lives on hold to travel hundreds of miles for weeks at a time to help another community in need. Those people who have the sole desire to help human-kind. It is YOU that we celebrate and thank every moment of every day.

If you'd like to get involved in your community and become one of those helpers, find a cause that speaks to you. Speak with the local Red Cross, your church, the Salvation Army, your local animal shelter ... any organization that you feel a connection with. Become the helper. I can guarantee that you won't regret it.

Sincerely,

Kristofer "Luke" Bolz

Chief Volunteer Services Officer

American Red Cross Southern Missouri Region