A community that embraces its own

I’m often struck at how generous our community continues to be – even in lean economic times.

Fundraising auctions used to be a rarity. Only a few organizations

did them a decade ago. Back when our daughters attended Immaculate Conception Regional School in Mount Vernon, the annual auction proved year after

year to be the school’s lifeline to keeping its doors open. We were always amazed how much the auction brought in and continued to increase each year.

Recently, I’ve received four invitations to attend live/silent auctions around our area just during the month of November and early December. But those aren’t the only ones taking place. Even more are scheduled here, each one having its own unique purpose. Some are to raise funds for an injured veteran, a preschool, Josephine care facility, Stanwood Community and Senior Center; a woman stricken by the same cancer other family members have died from, Camano Island Chamber of Commerce/Freedom Park and Skagit Valley Hospital. I expect if history repeats itself, each group will enjoy the fruits of their labor.

Just like a big family, this community reaches into their pockets when people, or an organization they believe in, are in need.

So, perhaps it’s true, what goes around, comes around, and is perhaps the mantra so many put into practice in this somewhat secluded area we call home.

They know if they ever need help, it would be there.

– Kelly Ruhoff

Editor