As we move closer to the heart of summer, many residents from around the county and region will look to get out and enjoy the weather and various events happening throughout Lawrence County.

Each of these events is typically put on by grassroots organizations who are formed to help make a difference for their respective communities.

With many cities, villages and municipalities facing financial challenges in today’s economic climate, having these civic organizations that help fill some of the void on various projects is essential.

Some of these events include the Great River Raffle in Ironton scheduled for this month, the Family Fun Days and the Party in the Park hosted by the Coal Grove Betterment Club and the People for the Point respectively in July, and the Rally on the River hosted by the Friends of Ironton in August.

Events like these have a goal to help provide enhancement projects for their own communities, but in some cases while memberships have faded, continuing to make a difference is the ultimate goal.

Simply put, these organizations and their volunteers continue to work hard each year to provide a fun outlet for residents. But it is equally as important to continue to support these events and organizations to ensure each is able to remain a staple of our communities for years to come.