In Community 🍂

Our Historical Society’s 50th anniversary this month wakes up a little something in us. As with most things, the Society started with the idea that Luther Burbank’s cottage and gardens could be restored and a museum could be established for future generations’ benefit. All was achieved; it took time, it took grit, a constant driving passion, and selfless volunteer hours, and today, these treasures are in service for all of us to enjoy.

We, as a community, are ever enriched by those who dared to see their ideas through. Frank Doyle, Exchange Bank President, rallied both the idea and the funders for the Golden Gate Bridge to increase commerce for our farmers. The idea for an Open Space District, the first of its kind, has been a huge success, with acres and acres of parklands acquired for all of us to enjoy. Our local Art Center was an idea written on a page, found in a drawer sometime later, and resurrected to the vibrant community anchor it is today. The Sebastopol Area Senior Center, a tribute to how we as a community feel and care for our elders, started with an idea. It’s a thriving center today.

And the list goes on… aren’t we so very fortunate that we, as a community, can identify so strongly with such generous stewardship? We often say we’re a product of our fertile soil. We grow good people, we grow good ideas, and we grow really good food!

But times are changing. The generational lineage of volunteers, steadfast in their community charities for so long, can’t be fully counted on anymore. City budgets are stretched too thin to support any of these organizations with future funds. Our wonderful Apple Blossom parade in the Spring and our Harvest Fair in the late summer always need volunteers; we, as a community, need new names to call on.

In the words of Dolly Parton, if you’re in a position to help, choose things close to your heart and feel good about what you’re doing.

May you enjoy this autumn and winter season of gratitude and giving. For all of us who care so deeply for our heritage, for the ability to call home (or 2nd home) this little slice of heaven, ask yourself where you can plug in with some volunteer hours, where you can provide a monetary end of year gift for the imprint you’ll leave for those who will follow.

In community and with love, we wish you all the best this Holiday Season.

Cory and Ian

Western Sonoma County Historical Society always welcomes docents for the Museum and the Farm and board leadership too

Sebastopol Area Senior Center welcomes volunteers for the Harvest Cafe and the many activities available there.

Chamber of Commerce underwrites the Apple Blossom Fair. Every year they need volunteers

Sebastopol Art Center welcomes docents and instructors.

End of year giving can be a tax write off with 501(c)(3) statuses.

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