I would be remiss if I didn't comment on "Why charity doesn't start at (our) home," Dec. 23, which reported that the Capital Region is behind other areas in charitable giving and volunteering.
The article is unnecessarily negative. Despite the rankings, we experience an outstanding amount of generosity in time, talent, and treasure at Colonie Senior Service Centers. Maybe that's because we celebrate every act of volunteerism and financial support. Our organization, a nonprofit, seeks support and volunteers from the entire community and they are very responsive.
Recently, the Key Club of Colonie High School volunteered to help a few seniors get leaves raked before the snow falls. No fuss, no problem. The Key Club, one of several youth groups we utilize, is always looking for volunteer opportunities. A phone call to Superintendant Jonathan Buhner, and help was on the way.
In February, SEFCU and CapCom and many others will join forces with us to raise nearly $50,000 to help seniors with their heating bills. Foundations are generous with their support and our corporate friends are diversified in their backing, from the arts to social services and beyond.
Especially at this time of year, when giving is so evident, why not focus on all the good that is done in the Capital Region?
Ed Neary
Executive director
Colonie Senior
Service Centers