Grange: now more than ever.

Within the past week, I have heard the same thing multiple times. "The federal government can't rescue us." "It's up to us." "Character is built in times like these." "We have to dig ourselves out of the hole - even if we haven't dug it ourselves." No matter how many ways it's said, the basic message is that no one can "save" us. Proactive movement on behalf of our NC General Assembly & US Congress will surely move things along and help alleviate some of the pain that we're all feeling right now, but I'm convinced that it will be a drop in the bucket compared to the ability that we, as everyday citizens, have to make significant changes in our communities.

Let's look back at the history of the Grange. After the Civil War, the USDA sent Oliver Hudson Kelley to the South to assess the devastation of its farmland. The Grange was organized and was an advocate in rebuilding the agricultural industry. In North Carolina, the Grange was re-organized in 1929... at the point of an economic downturn which turned into the Great Depression. What better time to re-energize, increase membership, become more active in legislative activities than now? We have the perfect opportunity to make a difference in our communities - whether it's mobilizing volunteers at a Soup Kitchen, mentoring students after school, hosting a resume writing & interview skills class, donating canned food or meeting with our elected officials about issues - we have the potential to be great leaders! With all of the uncertainties that present themselves to us, families are going to want to find comfort and stability in something - the Grange is that place. The Grange is an organization which fosters family and friendship, promotes advocacy for rural North Carolina, agriculture, education and health policy, develops strong community leaders and gives back to the community in an effort to make it a better place.

The Grange, a unique and significant organization, is needed now more than ever.