publisher's - Allegheny West Magazine

PUBLISHER’SNoteLet’s Volunteer in 2012 and Make a Difference Where We LiveTwenty-twelve. It has a nice ring to it. And a new year brings for each of us an opportunity for a clean slate, a chance to startfresh. Each of us can make a difference in the quality of life in our own community simply by giving the best thing we can give-- our time. And it can be minimal. Here are some examples:1. Have an hour? Clean up your neighborhood. There’s bound to be some winter debris around. Take a trash bag, pick up anytrash or twigs or whatever. The fresh air will be good for you and the walk will help you, too.2. Have a few hours a month and a car? Help drive meals to the homebound through Meals on Wheels. Your days and timescan be flexible. The folks there are grateful for whatever you can give. And you will get an appreciative neighbor in return. Callthe West Hills Meals on Wheels. Their phone number is on page 38.3. Have a morning or afternoon each month? The Montour Trail can always use some help. If you use the trail, you wouldknow that it doesn’t stay neat, free of debris, and repaired by itself. A small but dedicated corps of volunteers makes thathappen. Their number can also be found on page 38.4. Are you involved in parenting, or childbirth, or perhaps have a concern for unplanned pregnancies? Choices PregnancyCenter is always in need of help or donations. Their center in Coraopolis can always use volunteers for a wide variety of needs.5. Have a few hours twice a month or so? Spend a little time at one of the various food pantries (phone numbers also on page 38) to help stock theshelves, bag the food, distribute food to the clients, or keep things at the pantry organized.6. Do you like being part of the future of your community? The Moon and Crescent municipalities are always looking for interested folks to serveon various boards such as planning or parks and recreation. Many of the projects that emerge for your benefit in your neighborhood often springfrom the creative juices and ideas of your fellow neighbors who give some time to participate in these boards. While vacancies are not always open,they do open on a revolving basis. Give your township office a call and see what’s available!These ideas are just the tip of the iceberg as to what you can do to make your community a better place. And just think...you have all of 2012 tomake a difference without even leaving your own neighborhood.Happy New Year!Pat Jennette, Publisher & Editor4 Allegheny West Magazine January 2012