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Vernon County Big Serve set to return for second year
Coming into its second year, the Vernon County Big Serve is again looking forward to gathering volunteers throughout the community to assist those who need assistance with yard work, minor repairs, trash pickup and various other duties that can sometimes be difficult, for whatever reasons.
Organizer Lynda Jones says the idea to start one in Vernon County came after a discussion about gifts of the spirit. “I started thinking about my gifts and realized that I have a strong gift for organizing,” she said. She had heard of other communities throughout the country that have coordinated The Big Serve events, so she started researching what they had been doing and decided, “this is what I need to do,” — so she did.
Last September was the beginning of what Jones hopes will be an event that continues to grow over the next few years. “Last fall was awesome. We had 30 projects and around 250 people involved. Together, we cleaned yards, picked up roadside trash, repaired a roof and even painted a couple of houses.” The group tries to do all requested projects, but those requiring more money will depend on availability of funds.
Understanding that sometimes people have difficulty accepting assistance, Jones says they offer an opportunity to give back. “It certainly isn’t required though.” Giving back can take whatever form a person feels comfortable with, like sewing or cooking — it can involve almost anything, or nothing at all. “Sometimes people are giving back and they might not even realize it. Like I said, it’s never a requirement.”
“We do need Team Leaders, or a point person within organizations who can organize and recruit volunteers. Several groups, including Cub scouts, Girl Scouts, Crowder and various churches have really stepped up,” Jones says, “3M has had a team, as has Cottey College. We even have volunteers that are doing trash pickup outside of our designated project days.”
Jones is appreciative of everyone who pitches in to help and those who come forward to request assistance with projects. She encourages those who either need help or know someone who does to sign up for the upcoming event, to take place Saturday, Sept. 22 and Sunday, Sept. 23. “If you know someone who needs help getting things cleaned up, or if you yourself could use some assistance, please do sign up.”
“It doesn’t really matter what you have to offer as far as volunteering,” said Jones. “If you want to serve lunch to volunteers, rake, mow yards, paint, haul trash, or even help sew quilt patches — we all have something to contribute if we are able,” she said. She is very much looking forward to the upcoming opportunity to serve.
To volunteer or request assistance for yourself, a friend, neighbor or family member, go to bigservevcmo@gmail.com. Jones may also be contacted at the First Christian Church on South Washington Street.