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The City of Orem recently participated in the United Way Day of Caring community service projects. There were more than 1,500 volunteers across Utah County and 85 different service project locations. Big events like the Day of Caring do a lot to help our community, but each of us can serve our neighbors anytime throughout the year.
Serving our community and our neighbors doesn’t have to involve a major project like building a playground or painting a house. Many quiet opportunities to serve exist if you’re paying attention. I’d like to share a few examples with you to give you some ideas.
There is a family that enjoys gardening and doesn’t hold back on the amount of produce they plant each year. As the vegetables ripen, the family sets up a table in their front yard, offering any vegetables beyond what they know they will use free of charge to their neighbors. This service has helped many neighbors have fresh food they couldn’t afford.
How about an older couple unable to mow their lawn due to illness and injury? The grass was growing out of control when a neighbor asked if they needed some help. After explaining their plight, the couple was relieved when their neighbor offered to mow the lawn for them whenever he mowed his own yard. It didn’t take much extra effort for him, but it was a wonderful help to his neighbors.
During the snowy winter months, I have often seen someone fortunate enough to own a snowblower making their way around the entire block, clearing more than just their own sidewalks. Sometimes I have seen young children clearing the steps and walkways for elderly neighbors.
Each of us has the opportunity to make any day a day of caring and to help the neighbors and neighborhood around us. How will you show that you care?
Tom Macdonald
Orem City Council
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