Have you ever asked yourself what makes a community desirable? The first things that come to mind when this is mentioned may be the more superficial characteristics. These can be labeled Level 1 traits. They include shopping options, recreational facilities, attractive/well-kept neighborhoods, and scenic surroundings. These factors are all important and should always be a focus of community betterment.

However, under the surface, often hidden, are more important factors that are not as obvious during a drive-through. These elements are what can really make a community strong or weak; make it a good place to raise a family; or a locale one wants to be from not in. Some of these key hidden components include the community’s social support structures, the friendliness and welcoming attitude of the people, the city’s entrepreneurial attitude, its depth of faith, and the area’s generosity and spirit of service. These traits could be labeled Level 2 qualities.

Columbus tests positive for many of the Level 1 ingredients. However, it is in the Level 2 ones that it excels.

This community is a generous one that is welcoming to newcomers. I can speak to this from first-hand experience as my family and I have just finished our first year as Columbus residents. It is also deep and rich in its faith traditions. Many entrepreneurs have provided a vibrant industrial base here. Perhaps the most noticeable Level 2 quality is the spirit of service that characterizes Columbus.

While many Columbus citizens are very generous with their money, they are equally benevolent with their time. This writer has had the good fortune to sit on the United Way Board. The board hears first hand about the marvelous deeds being done through the many United Way agencies.

Each of these groups relies on a dedicated cadre of volunteers who make their operations cost efficient and service effective. Groups such as Big Pals/Little Pals, Teammates, and Youth for Christ work tirelessly to rescue young people from difficult life situations. Others such as Salvation Army, the Food Pantry, and the Rescue Mission provide for the basic food and clothing needs of those down on their luck.

Others such as Catholic Charities provide for the social and emotional needs of residents. Still others such as the Platte Valley Literacy Council provide adult literacy opportunities that are so necessary in finding financial independence.

The organizations mentioned above are United Way funded. However, there are many other groups in town for whom volunteers put in countless hours. These would include our churches, youth sport groups, and healthcare agencies. These too are essential volunteer resources that improve the quality of living in Columbus.

After one year in this city, I have concluded that we all are very fortunate to live in a community that cares so deeply about one another and that has people so willing to help others. If you do not already do so, I encourage everyone to become an active part of making this community great. This can be done in literally hundreds of ways through the many city organizations that work together to meet the needs of all Columbus citizens.

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