Inspiring: AmeriCorps effort shows how much can be achieved if we all pitch in

A bunch of strangers came to town this week -- and set an example for adults and teens alike.

The AmeriCorps volunteers are pitching in at a number of local organizations -- everything from serving meals to senior citizens to building a home for Habitat for Humanity.

It is part of their AmeriCorps experience -- they did not just wander into Goldsboro -- but it is an interesting idea all the same.

What if each of us did the same -- for one day, one week, one month or one year?

What kind of difference could we make?

These days families are so busy, they barely have time to accomplish the necessities, let alone to add any frills.

But what if volunteering became part of the "necessities"? What if a few hours a week were assigned to tasks to make this community a better place?

Imagine what could be accomplished.

And while sports, dance lessons and other after-school activities are important, wouldn't it be nice if schools had a community service requirement before graduation? Some already do, and it adds a new dimension to the education that the students receive.

How nice to be able to send 18-year-olds into adulthood with not only a bit of realization about the real world and their place in it, but also a real glimpse at responsibility and giving back.

That is something that is needed in any "growing up" curriculum.

So maybe now that summer is here, it is time to turn over a new leaf, to make a plan to give back, just like those AmeriCorps volunteers.

There are certainly plenty of places to go and much to do. All it takes is a little investment of time.

Published in Editorials on June 20, 2013 11:31 AM