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When it comes time to name the things that set Douglas County apart from other places, the spirit of volunteerism and community contributions must be near the top of the list.
Saturday, Douglas County's Martha Young was recognized with the Oregon Commission for Women's Women of Achievement Award. Young was recognized for her more than 30 years of service to nonprofit organizations in Douglas County.
Young is the third local recipient of the award, joining certified nurse-midwife Katherine Jensen and Sue Shaffer, chairwoman of the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians. Young's Douglas County activities began with her work at the Parents Action Council, which would later become the Umpqua Community Action Network. She was also involved with the establishment of Head Start, the Confidence Clinic, the Sunshine House child care center, and Umpqua Community Development Corp.
Many of her other activities for the betterment of the county's residents were detailed in the Sunday News-Review. (see article reprinted here)
She currently works for the Cow Creek Umpqua Indian Foundation conducting grant reviews and helping organizations apply for grants. Young is a more than worthy recipient of these most recent accolades and she is quick to recognize that many others have been involved in the work of improving life for those in need.
Last week the Retired Senior Volunteer Service Program recognized hundreds of residents for contributing thousands of hours of volunteer time. At the same time, another successful Rotary Duck Race fund-raiser was reported. Last week people just like you participated in church and service club activities, civic and social activities, and donated to causes ranging from the United Way to helping a local dance team make its way to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade.
Great communities don't just happen. They are marked by the willingness of people to make good things happen, a sense of direction and a vision of the future.
As much as Martha Young and so many others have accomplished here, there is more to do. You are needed. Check the phone book or the pages of the newspaper and offer to help one of the organizations that interests you.
You may not be the next Martha Young, but your assistance will be welcomed, you will help make a difference, and like most volunteers you will gain much by your giving.
Grantwriting and Technical Assistance Resources for Non-Profits
For more information, phone (541) 957-8945 or write
Carma Mornarich, Director, Cow Creek Umpqua Indian Foundation
2371 NE Stephens Street, Suite 100, Roseburg, Oregon 97470
