Finding Our Joy in Giving
Christmas is a time to consider what brings joy to our lives. So much of what brings us joy has to do with sharing time, talents, and gifts with others. Whether it be family, church, friends, community, volunteering, or a shared hobby, we often find joy in giving of ourselves to be a part of something bigger. Giving freely to others and seeing joy reflected—this is the height of fulfillment. As Maya Angelou expressed: “When we give cheerfully and accept gratefully, everyone is blessed.” It is for this reason that many feel called to volunteer in organizations, programs, and activities that bless our neighbors and community. There are many opportunities to experience this joy in the Fulks Run Ruritan Club, and such was the case with our annual Christmas dinner and meeting held on December 7.
During this meeting, we found joy in recognizing the special people in our club and community who go above and beyond to give of themselves. The club presented the Ruritan Member of the Year award to Janna Blosser. Janna has exceeded all expectations, serving in many capacities from Vice President and President to our current Treasurer, helping to maintain the park, and overseeing fundraisers and activities. She has also planned the monthly meals for more than a year, often fixing many of the dinners herself. Her commitment to the club is unfailing, and we are so appreciative of everything Janna does to support our club and greater community. Citizen of the Year was awarded to A.J. Caplinger. A.J. can always be counted on to help with a chicken BBQ, to oversee the dime pit at the annual lawn party, and to lend a helping hand to the club. Thank you for all you do to help the Ruritans each year, A.J.
In another sharing of special talents that inspired joy, Dave Kyger presented a Christmas gift to each of the ladies in the club on behalf of Buddy Keister. Buddy is a community member who as devoted much of his time to helping with park maintenance and upkeep, and he blessed each of us with a scarf he crocheted himself. We enjoy working with Buddy to keep our park in great shape for our local community, and we all appreciated these beautiful, colorful handmade scarves. Thank you so much for the thoughtful gift!
The club continues its efforts to enrich our community. The Ruritans logged 259 volunteer community service hours this past month, and Rose Harper presented Gold Awards to the club in all service areas for the work done this past year. In addition to working on holiday cards to brighten the spirits of our local shutins during this Christmas season, the club also voted to make a donation to a local family to help with medical expenses recently incurred.
The meeting ended with Dave Kyger and Chuck DeHart sharing their musical talents with us as we all joined together to sing Christmas carols while they played guitar. As we bring 2021 to a close, the Fulks Run Ruritan Club would like to thank our community for all their support this past year! Your investment in our club makes it possible for us to continue supporting our local schools, giving to local residents in need, and maintaining a scenic park that hosts many events and activities for our small community. May you experience the joy of giving this Christmas season and in the year to come!
Upcoming
On January 8, the Ruritans will hold their vaccine clinic at the Ruritan Park from 1:00-3:00 pm. We invite you to bring your pets out to update their vaccinations.
Vice President Lena Custer presents Janna Blosser the award for Ruritan of the Year.
