People of Action! Residents of Devils Lake Embody the Spirit of Volunteerism

Give back and make a difference! 

The credo of April’s National Volunteer Month is nothing new for the residents of Devils Lake, who continue to step up to the plate to ensure the vitality of the community and its residents remains strong. 

“We are fortunate to have such a steady flow of volunteer efforts that can be seen in action almost every day of the year,” said Forward Devils Lake Economic Development's (DLEC) executive director Brady Ash. “These are the folks who are often working behind the scenes, away from the spotlight, and it’s an honor to give them the credit that they deserve.” 

Stuff That Matters

“Life is Short. Do Stuff That Matters” has long been the motto of the Kiwanis Club. Formed in 1915 in Detroit, Michigan, this national organization has been devoted to serving children in a variety of ways. From health and nutrition, education and literacy, to youth leadership development, they inspire and support the next generation to go on and continue the Kiwanis legacy. 

In Devils Lake, the local chapter embraces that purpose in multiple ways while also going above and beyond in support of the community at large. From serving up holiday dinners to hosting the French Toast Feeds, members continue to volunteer their time, energy and efforts to make Devils Lake a better place. 

For Ash, who serves as president of the Devils Lake Kiwanis, being on the front lines also gives him key insights into the needs of his community. “It’s easy to think that challenges related to hunger and literacy happen somewhere ‘out there’ but not in your back yard,” he said. “And while those challenges are ever-present in every corner of the world, here in Devils Lake we really try to get ahead of the problem by offering real, viable solutions that are going to help; both in the now and for the long term, too. And it’s the volunteers who make it happen.” 

People of Action

The Devils Lake Rotary can also be found springing into action on a daily basis. As part of a global network of 1.2 million neighbors, friends, and problem-solvers, this volunteer-led organization has over 45,000 clubs working together to promote peace, support education, provide clean water, sanitation and hygiene, fight disease, protect the environment, and grow local economies. 

One of these programs includes the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in Ramsey, Benson, Eddy and Nelson counties. Since 2012, the Rotary has helped provide over 90,000 books to area children! Recently, Lake Toyota - Devils Lake Cars presented the Rotary Club with a check for $10,000 to support the championing of literacy in kids from infancy to five years old. 

“It’s amazing to see how everyone, from residents to businesses, step up to the plate in support of our volunteer organizations,” said Ash. “We’re giving a huge shout out to all of them and couldn’t be more grateful.” 

Do you want to make a difference? Contact the DLEC and find out how you can volunteer for our amazing community!