A healthy community is one that embraces the belief that health is more than merely an absence of disease. A healthy community includes those elements that enable people to maintain a high quality of life and productivity. Volunteering is a vital component of a healthy community and is based on motivation and passion, freely undertaken as a means to create greater mentorship and social support.

What if there was a grassroots 100-percent volunteer-run program that provided free fitness activities for the public to allow every youth to participate, regardless of economic background or ability? How about if that free program realized a number of societal goals: Raising youth fitness levels, increasing participant self-worth and promoting family bonding? Oh, and how about if I told you that this "sounds too good to be true" program has issued $12,750 in scholarships to deserving student volunteers to date?

Snoqualmie Valley Track Club was established in 1999. It provides a wonderful opportunity for Upper and Lower Valley families from a diverse array of socio-economic and multicultural backgrounds to participate in a wide variety of track and field activities. Individuals, as well as families, are able to compete and bond, with all participants encouraging one another in a fun and supportive environment.

The successful operation of any community-based organization is only as successful as the quantity and quality of the volunteer support it receives. The club has the money to keep the program going, but where are all the volunteers? We need more to share the load and share the joy. I urge you to commit with passion to your community. Give of your talents. Give of your time. Make a difference. Change your community.

The season starts with free "All-Comers Fun" meets on May 14 and May 21 at the wonderful new track at Mount Si High School. All competitions are from 2-4 p.m. An opportunity to sign up for the Wildcat Track Club will be available at the meets. Hope to see you there.

Paige Denison

Community volunteer

Duvall

Garney Gallagher

SVTC chairman

North Bend

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