Herman’s been in the 4-H saddle for 50 years, as a volunteer horse group leader. The County 4-H program recently paid tribute to this man who has devoted innumerable hours to teaching young people and guiding other 4-H leaders.

This agriculture-based organization is just one example of a vital community group that depends on volunteers.

National Volunteer Appreciation Week is April 16-22, a good time to recognize the many people in Hood River County who dedicate their time to serving people in need.

Whether a volunteer has been involved for a half-century or a few weeks, or serves every day or once a month, these are important roles.

Volunteers range from hospice organization aides to people who read to young people in our schools. They include food bank shelf stockers, drivers for Veterans Office and Meals on Wheels, blood drive registrars, tutors and classroom aides, museum docents, swim instructors, Big Brothers/Big Sisters mentors, 4-H leaders, and many more.

Most volunteer roles involve little or no prior experience; anyone involved in a nonprofit will tell you that the two main “job requirements” are willingness and dependability.

This newspaper tries to bring regular attention to the ongoing volunteer needs in the community, with our “Getting Involved” column. This resource is always available to nonprofit groups, via e-mail at: hrnews@eaglenewspapers.com.