Anthropologist Margaret Mead once said that we should “never depend upon institutions or government to solve any problem. All social movements are founded by, guided by, motivated and seen through by the passion of individuals.”
Civic participation embodies the spirit of being an active member of your community and fosters a healthy democracy. From voting to feeding the food insecure, or maintaining hiking trails that function as fire breaks, local volunteerism enhances the quality of life for individuals and the entire county.
As we enter the New Year, consider finding a cause, non-profit, or area of concern to support.
Studies have shown that people over the age of 60 who are engaged with community groups experience improved physical and mental health, along with greater life satisfaction. When youth engage in community service they are producing lasting rewards as well. Youth are shaping our culture and can making lasting and powerful changes in our community. Lower rates of depression and longer life spans are benefits for all age groups.
While our world often feels divided, Nevada County stands out as a place of resilience and unity. We come together not only during snowmageddon and wildfires, but also to celebrate our shared values and interests. From supporting the arts, to safeguarding the environment, we have one of the highest numbers of non-profit organizations per capita in the state. Within Grass Valley, Nevada City, Penn Valley and Rough and Ready, we currently have 711 recognized non-profit organizations.
This fall, Lisa Redfern and Rose Murphy began producing a video series that elaborates on nonprofit support tools, and showcases community volunteers. During their interviews, they discovered an overlooked historical building in need of immediate aid.
Video: Life Cycle of Charitable Giving
Dylan Hendricks, estate planning attorney, discusses the concept of the life cycle of giving. This corresponds to different stages in life and the various ways individuals can contribute to their community during each phase.
Video: Nevada County’s Robust Nonprofit Community
Brief interviews with volunteers representing Community Asian Theater of the Sierra, Interfaith Food Ministry, South Yuba River Citizen’s League, Wolf Creek Community Alliance, Searls Historical Library, KVMR, and more!
Video: Women’s History Building in Danger of Being Lost
During interviews with docents at the Grass Valley Museum and Cultural Center, two things quickly became obvious. Their artifact collection is stupendous and the building housing them is in dire need of funding and repairs.
It’s great if you’re already an active community volunteer! If you can answer ‘yes’ to the question, Can I do more? What service area calls to you?
Click here to download a PDF list of the 27 nonprofits represented in Rose and Lisa’s project. (https://tinyurl.com/3rp9z98n)
If you’re not fully engaged, 2025 may be your year to change that.
Rose Murphy is a retired educator, small business owner, freelance writer and volunteers for several local non-profit organizations.
Lisa Redfern is a multi-media story developer and author of Crossing: A Chinese Family Railroad Novel.