Holding the community together

Last year, many issues divided our community. Harsh words and thoughtless actions hurt good people on every side of the issue Our community was more fractured than at any time I could remember.

Then, our collective sense of community brought us back together.

When Jarrett Basgall needed funds for a life-saving transplant, the community rallied to raise the funds needed to put him on the transplant list. Businesses and individuals pooled their creative talent so that everyone could share in Jarret's new life.

A lost contract forced the board of directors of the Humane Society of the High Plains to consider closing its doors. The thought of losing the shelter brought new volunteers and donors to this unique organization.

There was an increase in the number of classes at Fort Hays State University with a service learning component. This growth linked hundreds of college students with local non-profit organizations. The time and talents shared by the students saved those organizations thousands of dollars while giving the students real-life experience and a connection to the community

And, as a community, we shared our values with our children.

Through Kids Voting Kansas, 1,194 students in Hays had the opportunity to experience the rights, responsibilities and mechanics of participation in American democracy.

Girl Scouts made get-well baskets for young people in the hospital. Parents gave children change to drop in a plastic jack-o-lantern during a homecoming parade for the United Way of Ellis County. To ensure that every child had a meal and toy at Christmas, a child emptied her piggy bank at the Big Brothers Big Sisters telethon.

Every day there are countless act of kindness and generosity. The shelves at the food pantries were restocked. Children had school supplies and afternoon milk. A shelter house was dedicated in the park.

As our defense against all the issues that could tear us apart as a community, we hold up our sense of caring, a sense of caring that reaches deep into our community. It is the spirit keeps us together. It binds us together for good.

Sue Rouse is executive director of the

Ellis County United Way.