By Council Member Catherine Mills-Reynolds
I have now been on council for a little over five months. In these past few months, I have learned much. One of the highlights for me has been getting to know more of our citizens and becoming more familiar with our outstanding volunteers and their significant impact on our community.
The city promotes volunteerism in Montgomery so that residents feel connected to their community and have the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of others. As a council member, I get to see this firsthand every day. Many of the city festivals, events and some projects could not happen if it were not for the support of so many in the community that volunteer their time. To evidence this point, I have shared some numbers with you that show our volunteers and volunteer hours from recent events.
- Basket Planting – 19 volunteers 58 Hours
- Beautification Day – 37 volunteers 98 Hours
- Safety Village – 55 volunteers 951 Hours
- 4th of July Parade and Festival – 43 volunteers 121 Hours
- Bastille Day Celebration – 52 volunteers 192 Hours
- One Stop Drop – 15 volunteers 48 Hours
- Amazing Race (new 2023) – 27 Volunteers 109 Hours
- Harvest Moon Fall Festival – 57 Volunteers 128.5 Hours
- Storm Sewer & Catch Basin Labeling Project (New 2023) – 25 Volunteers 75 Hours
- Holiday Decorating (including Takedown in Jan. and Prep in Nov.) – 76 Volunteers 115.45 Hours
- Holiday in the Village – 23 Volunteers 69 Hours
In 2023 alone, we had 332 volunteers who donated over 3,480 hours of their time! That includes 260 event volunteers and 72 individuals who volunteer their time on boards and commissions in Montgomery. As we gear up for another fun season of events, I know our volunteers will be there helping make it happen. Make sure you thank them, and if you have never volunteered for Montgomery before, make this your year! We need your help, and I am certain you will enjoy it. It is also a wonderful way to make lasting friendships with your neighbors and learn more about the city.
For those who are not in a season where volunteering is an option, you still have the opportunity to serve your community and spread a little sunshine among your neighbors. There is nothing as heartwarming and goodwill sowing, as a kind word or a friendly smile to someone who needs it. I think we all need it these days. So, if you are in the market, grocery, at the bus stop or in the park, smile and say hello to those you meet. You never know whose day you are turning around for the better.
I leave you with the words of Mr. Rogers, “If you could only sense how important you are to the lives of those you meet; how important you can be to the people you may never even dream of. There is something of yourself that you leave at every meeting with another person.” We would love to have your help this summer with the Independence Day Parade and Festival and Bastille Day.