As we approach the fall season, many of us feel like pressing the “refresh” button. Maybe it’s the beginning of a new school year or maybe it’s the changing of the season. If getting involved in the community is part of your “refresh” goals, there are multiple ways to achieve it.
The Wayzata Area Community has an abundance of leaders who are a great example of getting involved and we are fortunate that Greg Rye, Wayzata Area Chamber Member, is one of those leaders.
Get involved, stay involved, and encourage others to do the same.
When I moved to Wayzata from a suburb of Chicago in 1977, one of the first things I discovered was a sense of community. A small town that was connected by neighborhoods, businesses, local government, faith communities, non-profit organizations, service groups, schools, and so much more. It didn’t take long for me to learn from community leaders the value of “giving back!”
So many mentors and role models showed me how important community service is to the success and viability of a place to live, work, and play. Over time it became very clear that our contribution of time, talent, and treasure, is essential to sustaining community connectivity, engagement, and growth.
The options to get involved in the community are endless, the leadership roles are plentiful, and getting involved is contagious. There are many places that you can get your start. Become a member of the Wayzata Area Chamber of Commerce, visit your local Rotary Club, serve on a non-profit board, run for local office, volunteer at a school, serve your church, be a neighborhood block captain, or simply, let it be known that you are willing to share your work, wealth, & wisdom. Opportunities will find you and “Service Above Self” becomes a lifestyle.
I struggle with the phrase, Work Life Balance. Family, jobs, & self-care was easier for me when I defined it as Work Life Blending, knowing it was never balanced. It is important to remember that servant leadership includes your faith, family, and friends, and not at their expense. This is a lesson that I wished I had learned sooner. The community needs us, just remember and make sure your priorities are in the right order!
It is now 45 years later and as I look back, the biggest gifts and blessings are the people you served and the people you served with. So many do-ers, donors, and door-openers. People committed to making the lives of others better! These words are more than a call to action. I hope it reinforces why you and your gifts are wanted, needed, and appreciated. Get involved, stay involved, and encourage others to do the same. It takes a village and “villagers” LIKE YOU.
Blessings and thanks to you and everyone who helped show me the way!
