Three years ago, when volunteers adorned the streets and corners of downtown Ironton with blossoming flower displays, everyone had something positive to say.

Now, moving forward in its fourth year, Ironton In Bloom needs your help.

The grassroots civic organization that is dedicated to beautification of the city and ensuring that we put our best foot forward when someone visits is facing challenges. They need to find committed volunteers and the $40,000 it takes each year to pay for the flowers and their maintenance.

The group is continuing to look for new ways to have an impact. A variety of educational programs including free planting, recycling and anti-littering are also in the works.

The organization meets at 5:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month at the Ironton City Center. Donations may be sent to Ironton In Bloom, P.O. Box 4599, Ironton, OH 45638.

This isn’t an elitist group or a collection of individuals who don’t welcome others. Ironton In Bloom needs volunteers and needs support if it is going to continue making positive changes.

Anyone who believes this group is just about planting pretty flowers is missing the big picture of what beautification projects can do.

Much like its name, Ironton In Bloom is about planting a seed, one of community pride and personal responsibility that shows we all have the power to make the city and the county a better place to live.