A common need — 04/05/08

Fri, May 16 2008

— Looking to give something back to your community? If all goes as planned, there will be no shortage of local non-profit agencies at the April 12 Community Fair at the Boyd County Public Library. While the organizations differ greatly in their missions and scope, all share a need for more volunteers.
About 30 groups participated in the first Community Fair a year ago, and library organizers are hoping that number will top 50 at this year’s fair, which will be from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. next Saturday at the library’s main branch on Central Avenue.
“The Community Fair is a chance for the public to see what the community has to offer,” said library Director Debbie Cosper. “Sometimes it’s hard to find that particular group or program you are interested in and it’s hard for groups to find new members or volunteers. So we are bringing both sides together for an educational and fun afternoon.”
In addition to having the participating organizations distribute literature and perhaps sign up volunteers among the fair’s visitors, Our Lady of Bellefonte Hospital will be providing free health screenings and King’s Daughters Medical Center will have a Kids Corner. Friends of the Library — one of those organizations that is always in need of more volunteers — will have a bake sale and book sale during the fair.
There are numerous organizations in this community where those who want to give of their time and talents can volunteer. The Community Fair is an opportunity for residents to learn more about many of those organizations by visiting one location.
Similar events in the past have not always been successful in attracting a lot of visitors. We hope next Saturday’s Community Fair brings in scores of people who will strengthen a wide variety of organizations by giving of their time.