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Letter

By Staff | Jan 10, 2001

To the editor:

The beginning of another year frequently marks a time for positive change. Certainly many people have no problem striving for positive personal changes such as exercising more or eating less.

However, what is often not on anyone’s list of “New Year changes” is a commitment to helping to bring about positive changes in the community.

This is a shame because even a limited amount of time can have a, significant impact on community organizations. Many could not survive without the support of caring community residents.

For the American Red Cross, community support is greatly needed since diaster never takes a day off. Somewhere our assistance is needed 365 days a year.

Therefore, the American Red Cross must always be ready to provide blankets, new clothing, beds, pillows, hotel stays and food in an emergency; provide CPR and other health and safety training; provide resource materials, and provide Disaster Action Team volunteers with the supplies they need.

Of course all of these resources alone cannot ease the fears of a scared child after a fire, teach someone how to save a life, help an elderly person apply for energy-related assistance, or be a source of information and comfort after a disaster. Only a volunteer can do all of that.

Each new year gives us a chance to wipe the slate clean, and say “this is the year I’m really going to change!” Let 2001 be the year that you make positive changes not only in your own life, but in the lives of others as well. Just think about what your commitment to your community could do for a neighbor in need.

Jo Burkett,

executive director

Leavenworth County chapter

of the American Red Cross