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A season of caring

It seems that the bursting of buds and the flowering of petals coincides this year with a blossoming of charitable events that illustrate the best of the Valley's character. This past winter was a long one, and we know we're only a few of the thousands of people throughout the Valley who are celebrating the rebirth that is evident in the striking yellows of the daffodils, the vivid red of tulips, and subtle whites and pinks of flowering trees.

As we appreciate the slow advance of warmer, sunnier days, we also pay tribute to the many groups and individuals who spend most of their spring days each year planning events that help others.

Those who turn the pages of this newspaper will find a myriad of good works spelled out on mostly every page.

For example, Elaine Marcucio is organizing another walkathon to benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and the research for a cure for the life-shortening disease that affects Marcucio's young son and thousands of other children and adults in this country.

It is heartening to learn about parents and relatives who work hard to see that the diseases that affect their children and loved ones are eradicated.

There are many other upcoming events that will provide both enjoyment for the participants and help for the recipients of the proceeds.

For example, a "Souper Supper" Saturday at the First Congregational Church in Ansonia aims to raise funds to send teachers from local nursery schools and kindergartens to a national conference.

Proceeds from a May 21 auction sponsored by St. Augustine's Church in Seymour will go toward the purchase of a truck for a missionary in Ghana, Africa.

A karaoke night on May 7 sponsored by the Derby Elks will support community activities.

We've seen other charity events in the recent past that benefited Valley-wide organizations. A basketball clinic and tournament starring former UConn Lady Huskies raised money for the Lower Naugatuck Valley Boys & Girls Club. And on Sunday, about 800 people enjoyed an afternoon of music, the proceeds of which will help Spooner House build a new homeless shelter.

We support and appreciate all these efforts, along with those of the civic organizations who contribute to the region, the caregivers who help the elderly, the support groups that reduce the isolation some people feel, the hospice staff who help those reaching the end of their days, and those who provide safe places and activities for teenagers who otherwise might turn to crime.

These efforts are all signs that the spirit of giving is healthy in the Valley.

©The Valley Gazette 2006
Taken from ZWire.com