Building community requires a strong commitment on the part of local citizenry. We as citizens must take ownership in our problems and be willing to cooperatively take action to build a healthier, stronger and more prosperous community.

It will take hundreds of committed volunteers willing to work with our youth, our seniors, our families and all fellow citizens in need. New partnerships must develop between private and public sectors, health and human service providers, and business and nonprofit organizations.

With the federal government running deficits and state and local government budgets stretched to the limit, resources are becoming more scarce every year. A healthy, vital community will not happen by waiting for the government or some other outside entity to do it for us. We must do it for ourselves. All factions must come together under a new paradigm of collaboration, cooperation and common goals to effectively and efficiently utilize community resources both financial and human.

The key to our community becoming empowered to become healthier and more vital is citizens taking the initiative to get involved and to take action. It requires civic-minded people willing to volunteer their time and talents to make a difference. Volunteers are needed to mentor youth, help seniors, serve on planning committees, help raise money and fulfill many other responsibilities.

The Community Action Network is a community initiative that will need motivated citizens to get involved. Community input is critical to the ongoing success of this effort. Planning and implementation of the new initiatives will be done by citizens who are stake holders. As new projects or initiatives are undertaken, the Community Action Network will be seeking the help and commitment of community-minded volunteers.

We have the talent, energy and resources right here in our community to make it happen. Please let us know of your interest in getting involved by contacting the Community Action Network at 515-574-6433 or any steering committee member. Together we CAN build a healthier community!