Volunteerism: Where Community Begins

Communities are built, little by little, by neighbors who show up. By Shauna Fisher

Ballot Clerks Lisa Thorne, Linda Hogdon, Jeannie Foster welcoming voters at the primaries  

There’s something deeply rewarding about seeing friends, neighbors and Town officials come together to support our civic process. I especially enjoy the small moments -  greeting new voters, seeing parents bring their children along, or neighbors arriving together.

During the recent primary election, more than twenty Epsom residents volunteered to help set up, serve as ballot clerks, support their candidates, and stay late to count ballots. It reminded me that community begins when people are willing to step up and give some of their time.

Elections are only one place where volunteers make a difference. Throughout Epsom, volunteers support the food pantry, library, youth organizations, community events, Town committees and boards, and many other local efforts.

Volunteering can look different for each of us. A broader circle of volunteers brings more voices, perspectives, skills, and ideas to the table and, as the old saying goes, many hands make light work. Communities like ours do not simply happen. They are built, little by little, by neighbors who show up. To learn more about open Town board and committee opportunities for service, check out the Town website www.epsomnh.gov or contact the Town Office.  

Park & Recreation Commission members and volunteers install new playground equipment at Webster Park. Photo Credit: Cheryl Gilpatrick

 The Clouiter family volunteered a few hours to spruce up the Old Meeting House. Photo credit: Virginia Drew

Volunteers with the Epsom Food Pantry. Photo credit: Virginia Drew