IRONTON — Do you have the drive and dedication to make Ironton a better place?

Does the opportunity to grasp a project and guide it to success interest you? Do you take pride in volunteerism?

If so, then the Friends of Ironton, the non-profit, volunteer-based civic organization might be your fit.

The group, the backbone of many of Ironton’s largest civic and fundraising events, is currently seeking committed and dedicated board members and volunteers in its effort to grow and continue its community involvement.

Usually ahead of the step on bringing events and festivals to Ironton and Lawrence County, the Friends of Ironton is the driving force behind the Gus Macker 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament in June, the Rally on the River motorcycle festival in August and Oktoberfest in October.

The Friends of Ironton are also in the process of leaving a permanent footprint in downtown Ironton with their most recent project — Friends Splash Park.

The zero-depth, water playground is being built with donated funds and grant monies on a vacant parcel near Second and Vernon streets.

Friends Splash Park is tentatively scheduled to open immediately after the Memorial Day Parade on May 31.

“We need leaders and volunteers who are engaged in trying to make our community a better place to live and visit,” said Friends of Ironton board member Cheryl Bolender. “We cannot continue to grow without the support of community leaders and new board members.”

Those interested in assisting or serving on the Friends of Ironton board are urged to contact Madeline Blackwell at (740) 532-9755 no later than Nov. 30, 2009.

“The Friends of Ironton are committed to this community and have made great strides in improving our community such as the new Friends Splash Park. But we need leaders to help make the path to success and bring new and exciting things to our area,” Bolender said.