We never really know what creative ideas may pop up to help make learning activities available to more local students at Kump Education Center. The “Pepperoni Roll Pop-up” this Saturday was Laura Santmyer’s idea to help local students who might not have funding to pay full tuition for Spanish Camp.

Pepperoni rolls from Gino’s Pizza will be on sale, Saturday from 11 am to 2 pm in the old IGA parking lot. This parking lot now serves the Randolph County Commission Annex where early voting has been taking place. The pepperoni roll lunches will include two sides, a cookie, and a drink for $12.

When I think about Italian American pepperoni rolls helping West Virginia children learn to speak Spanish, it makes me realize what a wonderful, small world we have. I am so glad that Elkins is a place where caring volunteers will do the best they can to offer extra opportunities for children.

We still have volunteers for ArtsBank, Band Parents, Coaches for every sport from Baseball to Soccer, 4-H Leaders, PTA Officers, Read-Aloud Readers, Scout Leaders, Theater Volunteers, and Y Program Leaders. Randolph County Public Schools and Davis & Elkins College and United Way all collaborate with Kump Center and send volunteers to work with KEC. Banks, insurance agencies, and stores often contribute to programs at Kump Center and the public schools.

When we read that the USA is so hopelessly divided now, we should look at our neighbors who sincerely care about the needs of children. Remember the old saying: “Actions speak louder than words.” We may not be in the same business, church, or political party, but we are still willing to volunteer and support learning opportunities for children.

George Washington said that he could always depend on his volunteers from these mountains. He also said American soldiers could not be “drove” (driven like cattle), but they could be led to unite and meet challenges facing his struggling nation 250 years ago.

As long as there are volunteers in American towns like Elkins, I can continue to support the sunburst logo designed by a student at Elkins High School several years ago: “Kump Education Center: Creating a brighter future.”