Laura Nicholson, Executive Director/CEO

Volunteerism

If you read the Appeal-Democrat regularly, you have undoubtedly seen more than one thank you advertisement to sponsors and donors of community events and projects.

In fact, you have probably seen several in any given week. That's because the Yuba-Sutter community is such a generous place to live. There are literally hundreds, probably thousands, of volunteers in our recreation programs, schools, churches, seniors centers, non-profit groups and our service clubs. The Chamber's clubs and organizations list, which is on our web site at www.yubasutterchamber.com, lists more than 160 service related groups.

With so many groups, it is not unusual to have as many as 20 different events and activities, both large and small, taking place on a busy summer weekend.

Within this generosity, and to be found in these thank you ads, is a segment of the community that can easily go unnoticed. That's the businesses that are constantly donating raffle prizes, gifts and gift certificates to the various events.

In addition, the employees of these businesses are also giving of their time to make these events a success. That's because many of our Yuba-Sutter businesses promote volunteerism in their companies and believe in supporting the community's events and activities. The Appeal-Democrat is among those businesses with a strong sense of community stewardship and giving back to the community, including supporting this publication.

It is because of the generosity of Yuba-Sutter businesses that these groups are able to meet their goals. That is also why it is so important to support your local businesses. When you shop locally, you support the prosperity of a business, again both large and small. The sales tax dollars support the local economy and businesses can grow and prosper. When businesses are successful they in turn can support the local community and the fundraisers and events of area community groups. Those community groups then can contribute to bettering lives in our community through their organizations, whether it be for school improvements, assistance to the needy at the holidays, helping children and seniors, virtually anything that supports a strong quality of life in the Yuba-Sutter area.

So, next time you see one of those thank you ads, stop a moment and take a close look at the lists. See anybody that you know, a business that you go to or maybe one you haven't heard of?

Support those business leaders and their companies and you are part of making Yuba-Sutter the best place to live, work and play.