With the economy struggling, now’s a good time to help community

By Cathy Cressler, Publicist

For the majority of us, this recession has been unlike anything we have ever experienced before. We’ve seen revenues decrease, well-established companies fold, and good employees let go as cost-saving measures. In the private-sector, employees have seen their wages frozen or cut, and have had their hours and/or benefits slashed. Those with jobs are grateful for the continued paycheck.

Although it’s been tough out there for us all, it has been even harder for those dependent on the goodwill of others. Families that found it tough to survive in a good economy are now desperately hanging on. Social agencies have had their budgets cut as their clients have significantly increased.

The school year has begun. Struggling families are finding it hard to buy needed school supplies. Teachers who typically have purchased classroom supplies from their own pockets are finding it even harder to do so, given the salary cuts. Here’s a suggestion: next time you’re shopping at Walmart or one of the local drug stores, pick up a couple of packages of paper, a few notebooks, or a few packages of pencils to donate. Drop the supplies off at the school of your choice, or check with a local charity to see if they are collecting school supplies (No to Abuse; Nye Communities Coalition; Salvation Army; a local church; etc.) Better yet, make your business a drop-off location; then advertise your location in a “Brief.” Both Pahrump newspapers – the Pahrump Valley Mirror and the Pahrump Valley Times – accept Briefs and will print them free of charge. The community of Pahrump will remember your generosity when they drop off their contribution at your location.

Another suggestion: the food bank at Nevada Outreach Training Organization is overwhelmed with new clients. The parking lot is always full at 621 North Blagg Road, and in their waiting room there is standing room only. The non-profit group accepts non-perishable food (and monetary gifts) from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Again, consider offering your business as a drop-off location for non-perishable foods.

With the December Holidays fast approaching, find a favorite program and participate. Currently, both Allstate Insurance locations are accepting “gently used” or new jackets for children. Or, choose an “Angel” from an Angel Tree at a participating retail location around town and buy a gift for a child this Christmas. Another program is The Toys for Tots campaign. Boxes have been distributed at various retail locations around town where you can drop off a new unwrapped toy.

If you haven’t signed up as a volunteer to help Pahrump kids, consider doing so; many need your help. The Nye County School District has developed a very professional volunteer program. Contact the coordinator’s office at 775-727-7743 (8 a.m. to noon, Monday through Friday). You may be needed to read to a class or child; help a child with homework or a difficult subject; assist in the office at one of the schools; or one of the schools may need your assistance in their library. There are plenty of choices.

The Pahrump Community Library is looking for volunteers to assist with their “adults learning to read” program. Or you may want to read a favorite book to a group of children. Give them a call at 775-727-5930.

Now is the time to put your own self-interests and problems aside and help those in greater need. Surprisingly, the world will look a little brighter, and you’ll be amazed at how great it makes you feel!