It’s National Volunteer Week

April 21-27 is National Volunteer Week. This week occurs every year during Global Volunteer Month. The month is designed to appreciate volunteers as well as to inspire volunteerism. Every act of service builds a more connected world. National Volunteer week began in 1974. For 50 years communities have been encouraged recognize to the power of volunteerism to transform their communities.

On New London’s School District webpage, Tiger Pantry volunteers got a special recognition.

“These men and women don’t just show up and serve others on Saturday mornings and Thursday evenings during their open hours,” the district wrote. “You will find many if not all of them at the pantry throughout the week unloading shipments, organizing, and restocking items. Week in and week out they continue to serve those in need with a friendly smile as they take orders and deliver them to patrons’ vehicles.”

The Tiger Pantry volunteers are quick to turn the compliments back to the NLCSD students and staff who help unload the trucks, New London groups and individuals contribute equipment, funds, and items; plus the many businesses in Henry County donate extra food items as well. All are important to the success of the pantry.

The recent tornado has seen the entire New London community pitch in helping anyone and anywhere they can. Much has been accomplished in the few short days since the event and there is much more to do. It will be many years before recovery will be completed. The true test of the strength and determination of New London community spirit will be shown as it continues its battle back to “normal.” One has to doubt the will and the power to do so. It is important that the entire community recognizes “Volunteers Appreciated” and adds itself to the honored list.

Note: New London Community School District is holding its annual “Community Day” Friday, April 26. Call Kim Wagner at 319-367-0500 or email her at kim.wagner@nlcsd.org to get on the list for yard work, painting, cleaning windows.