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As I read the editorial from Dr. Heather Biola titled "Elkins Volunteerism is Phenomenal," Our Town, Inc. was in the middle of its spring project "Sprout Into Spring 2022: Tiptoe Through the Tulips."
Pure volunteerism carries each of these projects. Once again, the West Virginia Wood Technology Center staff and volunteers gave of their time to cut materials. Then volunteers from Our Town transport materials and assemble the final products to be distributed from a downtown space donated in the Seneca Mall. Then community volunteers of all ages gave of their time to create over 100 flowers to display to dress up Elkins.
When you think of that, doesn't that seem surprising and miraculous? People stood in line to pick up the wooden pieces and promised to bring them back with a variety of designs and colors because they have pride in their community and what they can contribute.
Then came, March 19, the day to decorate the town. Eight Our Town regular committee members and the energetic son of one of these came to work. That is much work for that size of a group, but an earlier call a week in advance to Scout leader John Dibacco resulted in a text the day before saying some of them would come. Five scouts from Troop 88, one younger sister and six adults showed up ready to take flowers once they were checked in. Out the door they went at an amazing speed and were quickly placed up and down the streets.
Then come along the four refreshing young adult missionaries from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to wind up the day. How much we envy the spirit of giving that both of these groups are developing. Pizza and laughter was shared when work came to a conclusion.
Before we know it, it will be time to take these flowers down on April 30 and then will come other community members who graciously donate $10 to buy the flowers. More volunteers will be needed. The flowers may be purchased by their own creators and others will donate their products to help Our Town raise money for the next project. No one fusses about the purchases and are anxious to see what comes next.
Before the project will come to an end there will be the Welcome Spring day on March 26 where, again, nine groups will volunteer their time from noon-1:30 p.m. to engage with children and adults to celebrate spring in the newly renovated Atrium at the Seneca Mall. A thank you to Sydney West for volunteering to assist Our Town in creating this event.
To top it off, four groups of volunteers that include quilters, weavers, a child care service and the teacher and members of Elkins Middle School art club have volunteered to decorate empty downtown windows for the season.
All of this happens with a simple call or contact, an enthusiastic spirit and kindness. The hope is that people standing on the periphery of these types of events, no matter who they are, will consider reaping the rewards from volunteering and lending a hand. It is also hoped that members in positions of leadership will value each and every non-profit and volunteer group that give the backbone of support to our community.
Bobbi Trimboli
Our Town, Volunteer