They are getting by with a little help from their friends.

The Ironton Eagles Aerie 895 last week donated more than $16,000 to three area emergency services agencies and to the local Hurricane Katrina effort.

Representatives of the Ironton Police Department, Ironton Fire Department and Lawrence County Sheriff's Office all received donations during a check presentation Tuesday at the Eagles Club.

&#8220We're a friendly bunch of people who enjoy helping other people,” Aerie 895 secretary George Stamper said.

Ironton Fire Chief Tom Runyon said he will use the money donated to his department to purchase a newer fire inspector's vehicle.

&#8220We need a vehicle that's a little better on fuel,” Runyon said. &#8220Plus, it's become a little expensive on maintenance.”

Runyon said with the city budget being as tight as it is, donations from area civic organizations and clubs are important.

&#8220Without these kinds of donations a lot of our needs would just fall by the wayside,” he said.

Lawrence County Sheriff Tim Sexton said the donation to his department will pay for child identification packets deputies hand out to families with young children at the county's various public events. Part of the money may also be used as a local match for other grants. Like Runyon, Sexton said in tough economic times every donation counts.

&#8220We can never thank them enough,” Sexton said. &#8220There are things we can do with this money and perhaps things we can do better. Any money we get is very helpful.”

Do you know someone who goes above and beyond the call of duty? Know someone who makes a difference by volunteering in the community? Let us know and they could be featured as the Volunteer of the Week. To give us a tip call (740) 532-1445 ext. 24 or by e-mail at news@irontontribune.com.