2024Q4: Letter From the Publishers
Impact of Volunteering: Fueling Growth, Connection, and Shaping Our Community
Volunteering is the backbone of thriving communities; nowhere is that more evident than in Lawrence. In this issue, we talk about the impact of volunteering and highlight several volunteers – we couldn’t cover every organization or volunteer – but we tried to create a cross-section of the community and the volunteers who make it run.
PROFESSIONAL SPOTLIGHT: Lori Alvarado
In 1974, a grassroots group founded DCCCA under the name Douglas County Citizen’s Committee on Alcoholism offering substance abuse treatment.
Lawrence in Perspective: Gone But Not Forgotten
The history behind the building of Kansas Memorial Stadium and the Kansas Union includes memorializing those who served and died in World War I.
Bern Nash Community Mental Health Center: Shania Lopez-Cabrera
MINDING MENTAL HEALTH
Helping others get access to and manage their mental health can be a process for some Bert Nash volunteers, many of whom have had struggles of their own.
Friends of the Kaw: David Sain
A SOURCE OF PRIDE
Volunteers with the Friends of the Kaw not only take care of the Kansas River but help keep the water safe for the nearly 1 million Kansans who utilize it.
Newsmakers 2024Q4
Two years ago, Bishop Business, a family owned and operated business equipment company based in Omaha, acquired Laser Logic.
The Lied Center: Erika and John Dvorske
USHERING IN A NEW SEASON
Volunteering at the Lied Center not only allows people the ability to connect with community members socially, it also offers a direct connection to the arts.
POLL WORKERS: Maren Ludwig
WORKING THE POLLS
Trained volunteers are essential to a smooth Election Day process.
HUMANE SOCIETY: Bennett and Kristin Lyon
A HUMANE CHOICE
Volunteering is not just for adults. There are options for kids, as well—including the local animal shelter.
Connecting With The Community
LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS WITH AN ARMY OF VOLUNTEERS
In Douglas County, volunteers are essential for some organizations to carry out their mission. No volunteers means not accomplishing the purpose the group has set out to do.
Baldwin City Fire Department: Becky Catron
A PENCHANT FOR SAVING LIVES
At a young age, this Baldwin City Fire volunteer knew what she wanted to do and is now able to give back to the community through her passion for medical care.
Lawrence Public Library: Jane Imber
MAKING AN IMPACT
Using experience gained during years working in a particular field can be helpful for retired volunteers.
Local Scene 2024Q4
The local scene – Ribbon Cuttings, Events and More in pictures.
LMH HEALTH: Ensuring Longevity
LMH Health Foundation donors contribute to the long-term success of the hospital with their financial contributions.
LMH Health: Karin Rexroad & Caroline Trowbridge
A HABITAT FOR HEALING
Hospital volunteers are essential to not only the patients but also the doctors, nurses and other health-care workers who are focused on providing high-quality care.
Habitat for Humanity: Doug Tilghman
THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME
Some options for volunteering, such as with Habitat for Humanity, offer those who prefer to use their hands and get physical the opportunity.
CASA: Jude and Wayne McDaniel
GIVING KIDS A VOICE
Advocates for children in the foster-care system are essential to helping them through what can be a complex and difficult time in their lives.
USD 497: Darin Lutz
THEY ARE OUR FUTURE
Helping out USD 497 is a top priority for this local business owner, whose children have all attended its schools.
Van Go: Stacey Lamb
STRAIGHT FROM THE HEART
A good mix of art, young people and hope make Van Go an ideal volunteer opportunity for many community members.
NON PROFIT: O’Connell Children’s Shelter
IT TAKES A VILLAGE
O’Connell Children’s Shelter is able to provide emergency care for community youth in need because of the help of its many generous volunteers.