Kim MacGregor is the president of the Greater Dowagiac Chamber of Commerce. She can be reached at kim.macgregor@edwardjones.com.

Happy New Year! I hope you all had a wonderful holiday season, now back to work!

It has been a great time to see people come together and benefit others. It is amazing how many volunteers run this world. I have watched someone in Sister Lakes playing Secret Santa. I am not sure of the number of gifts, but she had to put out 50 if she put out one. I have listened to a person in a retail store checking someone and letting them know of other sales in the area, and other events in town. Nice! There were nearly 100 volunteers for the Christmas parade. Wow! It is wonderful to see and hear of people doing selfless things — whether it is the holiday time or not. So many people work tirelessly to help others, to give someone a hand up or a smile. I want to thank each of you. You are appreciated!

I challenge you to make a difference. Join a group — there are a lot of them looking for help! Volunteer at the United Way — they have a multitude of events all year long! Or of course, help your local chamber. Whether it’s physical help or donation help, we would love to have you. We work tirelessly to drive folks into town to showcase our fine city, and to bring them back to live, work or play! 

Perhaps your way to help is to look around and see who is next to you. Can you help a neighbor? This time of year is tough on our seniors. Take a moment to check on one. Or 10! Help that single parent with babysitting while they run to the store. There are a multitude of ways to help. Pick one for you. It is small acts of kindness that mean so much!

Go out there and make it a great day!