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Editorials - 05/18/00Plight of Red Cross shows need for more volunteers |
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News that the Jackson County Chapter of the American Red Cross is considering merging with the Asheville Chapter should serve as a wake up call to all of us.
Merger itself doesn't concern us. Many other Western North Carolina chapters have merged with Asheville's. If merger comes, the local chapter would be known as the Jackson County branch and would maintain its own identity. What bothers us is the primary reason merger is being considered a lack of volunteers. That's stunning since ours is a community that has always prided itself on its volunteer spirit. With retirees moving to our area at an ever increasing rate, we should have more volunteers than ever. Then there are state and federal employees who can retire after 30 years at a relatively young age leaving plenty of time for volunteerism. The problem isn't unique to Jackson County, or even the Red Cross as chapters nationwide have reported declines in donations of time, food and money. Neither is it something that came on overnight. Those who work with agencies that rely on volunteers say they have seen the problem developing for some time. They cite today's busy lifestyle with many people working two jobs or working overtime to make ends meet. In a small town like ours, it may be that newcomers aren't as likely to volunteer as folks who have been raised here and feel more a sense of community. That's not a knock at newcomers, but maybe they just aren't as aware of the opportunities available. When a family loses its home to a fire, it's the local Red Cross chapter that springs into action. The same can be said when someone in the military needs to be flown home due to a medical emergency in the family. Money for such activities comes from local funds, and that won't change if merger takes place. It's up to us to keep the local chapter going through the donation of time as well as money. We trust the local Red Cross board members as they make the decision on merger. If it's the best thing for the Jackson County Chapter, we're all for it. We know the spirit of volunteerism is alive and well in Sylva and Jackson County. For proof, we only have to look back to last year and the overwhelming volunteer effort that went into rebuilding Poteet Park. That same spirit can help the Red Cross through its current crisis and bolster other agencies as well. Let's roll up our sleeves and give not only blood, but some sweat to our hometown Red Cross chapter. Editorial policyThe opinions expressed on this page are those of the Sylva Herald Editorial Committee. Opinions are derived independently and owe no allegiance to any group, organization or political party. We welcome opposing views. |
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