10 Ways to be a Better Volunteer

Volunteering has always been a part of my life. I watched my parents take leadership roles in community organizations or fill in the gaps at certain events. Some of the best life lessons I learned came from watching the adults around me volunteer. Volunteers truly put the extra on ordinary. Winston Churchill said, “We make a living by what we do, but we make a life by what we give.” I truly believe to give is to get.

Volunteers: Putting the Extra on Ordinary

Growing up, volunteering was as much a part of our lives as farming. I remember Dad rushing in after chores for a quick shower, bite to eat and splash of Old Spice cologne, then out the door to another late night meeting. He has served on every board imaginable – county farm bureau, fair association, township, school board, regional school board, pork producers. He did it because he felt that if he wanted a say, then maybe he should put in the time. Novel idea, don’t you think?

Watching the Weather

I’ve often wondered if everyone is tuned into the ebbs and flows of Mother Nature as much as a farmer.  I’m sure people are, but through my life experience lens knowing weather signs without the aid of a computer, cell phone or weather radio was and is vital.  Country living doesn’t lend itself to reliable early warnings.

Small Town Saturday Night

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With just a few weeks before graduation, Mr. Kleinmaier, the high school social studies teacher, started class with, “So when are you all leaving?” We closed our books knowing that this would be one of those classes when Mr. Kleinmaier … Continue reading →

Chili Suppers, Soup Suppers, & Spaghetti Dinners

On the third Saturday of January, the Lee Center Church hosts its annual chili supper.  Chili bowls flanked by homemade jello salads and desserts line the packed tables in the church basement.  It’s been more than 25 years since I wandered up and down the rows of tables asking, “Coffee, juice or milk.”  Growing up, my friends and I had fun playing the role of waitress for the night, serving drinks, clearing dishes, setting placemats and running up and down the stairs to collect more smiling customers.

The supper and church has changed a bit.  Fresh paint coats the basement walls, updated curtains frame the windows and new carpet was laid on the steps.  Church members wear matching red polo shirts, and each table features a small bowl of baby carrots, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onions and a small serving of sour cream.

What haven’t changed are the people.  Granted a new group of young adults pace the tables with pitchers of lemonade, water and coffee, but many of the same faces are serving chili, plating salads and desserts and calling out happy greetings to folks finding their seats.

My husband observed that the crowd of customers also has not changed.  They are more weathered and wrinkled than before and those basements stairs are starting to pose a problem for many.  Our young family was the minority tonight.

Churches and organizations serve up chili, soup, spaghetti and pancakes to raise money, but more so they give our small towns or neighborhoods a tradition, something to look forward to in the grey of winter.  These events are a gathering place where everyone is equal.  While enjoying a bowl of chili we keep a church going, a community strong and show our kids that sometimes the best meal is one shared with neighbors.

It seems more than ever our lives are packed with varied commitments and no free time.  But I would encourage the next time you see “Chili Supper” posted on a church marquee, make a point to have a bowl.  It will fill more than your stomach.  It will fill your soul.