Editorial by Dawn Burleigh

Many times over the years, I have heard the one thing people like about Orange is the people.

I have lived many places across the country and even spent almost two years in another country. By far, Orange truly is unique when it comes to the people.

My Facebook feed has been overwhelmed with people who are trying to help others with school supplies, clothing, searching for lost dogs, a found travel mug, and the owner of lost keys.

Angie Beaumont, of Vidor, started a rock group in Vidor. Now I see similar groups popping up in Orange, Bridge City, Orangefield and Mauriceville.

The idea is to paint a rock, then leave it in a place where it can be found and hopefully bring a smile to someone.

When I first heard of the idea, I was not sure what to expect. I know Angie is a talented lady as I have seen her magnificent quilts. But rocks?

Her talent and the talents of others in the groups has left me speechless more than once.

Side note to my publisher: You may stop laughing now. I do stop talking once in a while.

When I began to see the spectacular work these artist created, it reminded me again the greatest asset of Orange County is the people.

As Angie wanted to do something to give back to the community, it is just one of the many activities within the county of people doing something to better their community.

Another group of individuals are those involved with the Naomi and Ruth Rescue Transitional Center. The church took a house and have breathed new life into it as they prepare to open in the coming weeks to give women a second chance. The home is for abused or incarcerated women who need a second chance at life.

Take a look at The Field of Plenty. It started as an idea and is now a reality.

A community garden project, The Field of Plenty’s purpose is to supply fresh fruit and vegetable to the Orange Christian Services food pantry. The Orange Christian Services provides food for 600-800 households per month. The Field of Plenty has been funded by the Orange community.

Read that again… funded by the Orange Community. Proving again, the greatest asset of Orange is the people.

Signs are popping up in yards for MakeItHappen, another group which gives back to the community. The group offers an option for those without a political or religious stand. According to the founder, Jason Platt, the events held are for everyone.

“If we help one, we help all,” Jason said during a recent event.

The non-profit organization began as a challenge between two individuals to a race. The race turned into the Neighborhood Olympics. The response was so great, the group formed and now holds challenges every couple of months as fundraisers to help them make it happen now for people in need. Neighborhood Olympics Round Two is set for Noon, July 29 at the East Campus of the school.

Small acts, make a huge difference in the community and in our individual lives.

 

Dawn Burleigh is editor of The Orange Leader. She can be reached at dawn.burleigh@orangeleader.com