| Apr ’10 |
| 10 |
| 12:00 PM |
Research shows how important the benefits of home ownership are to any community. The U.S. Census Bureau found that even between a homeowner and a renter of equal age, income and marital status, the renter is more likely to move out of his / her residence in a given year than a homeowner. Residential stability has been found to indirectly strengthen local social ties. The NAR Research concludes that homeownership does bring positive social outcomes with respect to housing stability or less frequent change of residence.
With the rise in unemployment, lack of lenders, and a local economy spiraling out of control the idea that home ownership (the American Dream) is the only way for North beach folks to own a piece of our community threatens the stability of our neighborhood. How about the notion of Volunteerism?
In Ocean Shores the opportunity for community ownership is huge. Every day, members of our community commit their time, resources and dollars in areas that our government simply fails to address. We inform our local public through volunteer oriented television. Have you ever wanted to learn to write, program, film or direct. You can here. How about becoming a DJ? You can here. Do you enjoy meeting new people, sharing with others the special things you know about living here? We have so many opportunities for you to develop these skills right here at home.
Retuning home from a short trip to Los Angeles I had an epiphany. Driving through our town, I passed the city’s Chamber of Commerce, The Good Neighbor Center (formerly the Senior Center), Paws, Convention Center and the newest of our towns jewels; the Ocean Shores Garden by the Sea (GBTS)( A Community Garden). Having contributed in some way to all of these places offered me such a sense of ownership that I couldn’t see living anywhere else in the world!
Benefits of home ownership may yield a significant return to our community but so will volunteerism and anyone can do it.
Sushila Ravard, a master volunteer and president of GBTS says that their mission statement says it all “Garden by the Sea is dedicated to the development of community relationships through people growing garden fresh food while addressing hunger. We strive to build community spirit through leadership, the garden experience, education and social responsibility with volunteerism.”
She says “Volunteering can help you explore your interests, expand your social network and build real world skills. If you enjoy the outdoors, getting together with friends, cooking or working with kids you should try being a volunteer.” Did you know that giving your time can also help you learn about possible careers? It’s widely known that Americans will engage in three or more careers in their lives, so whether your just starting out, or, exploring new career options, volunteering can be a great way to explore your options. Would you like to teach? Do you have an interest in Science? How about office work or leadership? Opportunities abound right here at home. You don’t have to go to Seattle or Los Angeles to learn new skills. For new students and those starting over building a resume can be challenging in the best of times. Potential employers want to know if you show up on time, can take direction, are responsible, and work well with others. A good reference from a place you’ve volunteered with can help them decide that you’d be a good employee. These benefits extend to college admission as well. Colleges and universities all want to know who you are and that you are well-rounded.
Take the first step. On Saturday, April 10th, during the 2010 Garden by the Sea’s open house will sponsor its annual Opening Day from 12noon -4pm. It’s a day of celebration for the beginning of Spring, the growing season and a “Day of Caring” event.
Volunteers and interested community owners are encouraged to participate in the garden at this special event. Learn how you can serve in a volunteer capacity in a role or position of your interest. The GBTS offers great opportunities to learn and grow from leadership roles on the board to growing food for our food bank and so much more. As garden volunteers we can match your goals with our needs. We can introduce you to other agencies throughout the community. “Non-profit” agencies in the North beach are always happy to receive volunteers to help with projects that otherwise would be put on the back burner or not done at all. We’ve seen some pretty amazing connections occur as volunteers and we want to “hook you up”. Find out more about the Garden by the Sea, the services they provide in the community and how you can become a community owner with or without home ownership by attending this event. You can learn more about volunteerism by reading the volunteer handbook on their website at http://www.gardenbytheseaoceanshores.org or calling Sushila Ravard directly at 360/593-8720 or Karen Young at 206/660-4548
