Service to Others During the Holidays
From The Governor’s Desk
A weekly column by Gov. Joe Manchin
It’s hard to believe the holiday season is just around the corner. As we start making our plans for Thanksgiving and Christmas we can easily become distracted and lose sight of the true meaning of the season. This is the time of year when we gather with family and friends, give thanks and delight in each other’s company and create new and lasting memories. These festive and joyous few weeks should also be a time to spread the cheer within your community and with those who are less fortunate.
West Virginia is no stranger to hardship, and I truly feel that is what makes the people of our state so special and unique. We are known for opening our hearts and giving as much as we can to help each other in times of need.
I speak often about my grandmother and how she opened her home in Marion County to those less fortunate. She was a one-woman social services agency, providing meals for the homeless and caring for both strangers and members of our community. Through her example, she taught us to always share our blessings and lend support to those who needed a helping hand.
There are countless opportunities in your neighborhood and across the state where you can help our communities by volunteering. From ringing the bell for the Salvation Army to serving up food at the local soup kitchen, I’m sure you’ll find the rewards are greater for you than just the time spent volunteering. Mahatma Gandhi perhaps described the benefits of volunteering best when he said, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”
Volunteering in West Virginia extends to the workplace, as well. Many West Virginia businesses are leading the way with programs that encourage their employees to become active in their communities. When companies become involved in their neighborhoods, they gain a greater understanding of their communities and their needs. It also helps businesses identify the best ways they might share their resources with their neighbors.
Gayle and I encourage every West Virginia business, large and small, to become involved in their communities. We also encourage West Virginians to share their many blessings by making a difference in the lives of those who are less fortunate and to do something for their state or community.
This holiday season, give the gift of giving. Whether it’s taking the time to serve hot meals in a shelter, handing out coats or writing a check, we can make a difference by giving … and that gift is needed by so many.