Community and Commitment

By Diane L. Friar, CPA/ABV

Business leaders, business owners, management personnel, and education leaders all have the opportunity to set the example and teach the significance of supporting the social sector. Following are the words and message of George Bernard Shaw:

"I am of the opinion that my life belongs to the community, and as long as I live it is my privilege to do for it whatever I can. I want to be thoroughly used up when I die, for the harder I work the more I live.

Life is no 'brief candle' for me. It is a sort of splendid torch which I have got hold of for a short moment, and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to future generations."

All across our country, there is a multitude of contributing women, men, young adults, and children making a difference, changing lives, and bettering our communities. Sharing in a common bottom line means working at a grass roots level to give back to those less fortunate in our community. That community may mean your neighborhood, office, town or city, state, country, or world. Those less fortunate does not only address others living in poverty. Assistance should be extended to those locked into abusive situations, struggling with illiteracy, language or employment barriers, and less than adequate housing.

Business, educational, and spiritual leaders have an enormous opportunity to assert the significance of service to the social sector. Deliver the message of volunteering and set the example. In 1998, 55 percent of Americans (109 million) volunteered an average of 3.5 hours per week. This is estimated to be a total value of more than $225 billion. In 1999, individual Americans contributed $190 billion to nonprofit organizations. Locally, our community is fortunate to have many businesses who willingly and regularly contribute to bettering our local population and community. Some firms "loan" their staff to organizations needing personnel and helping hands. Other businesses and leaders donate monetary assistance or organize and support charity events.

Some may find it difficult to share and spread the message of commitment and contribution. Those who share their talent, time and monetary funds are often modest about their contributions. However, it is crucial to show leadership in actions supporting our community and social sectors. To strengthen and build at a grass roots level is commendable and necessary. To share those actions with colleagues, family, and friends provides initiative and opportunity for others. We need to build commitment and show others the possibilities for improving lives and situations of those in need.

There was an inspirational outpouring of aid for those affected by September 11th. We should not overlook the opportunities in our communities that are always in need of volunteer time, assistance, and monetary contributions. Let us not allow a global/national event to overshadow our immediate communities' needs. The torch can continue to burn brightly if we each teach by example.

Diane L. Friar, CPA/ABV has been associated with Echelbarger, Himebaugh, Tamm & Co., P.C. (EHTC) since 1977 and is currently a Shareholder and Vice-President of the corporation. Each year EHTC sponsors their "Chipping for Charity" golf outing in support of local charities in need. If your organization would like to be considered, please contact Diane at 616.575.3482 or dianef@ehtc.com