From ancient Greece to modern times, people have often despaired of the youth of their day. Take this quote from Hesiod, 8th century BC poet:

“I see no hope for the future of our people if they are dependent on frivolous youth of today, for certainly all youth are reckless beyond words…”

I am glad to report that we do not have that problem in the Fairview community!

Food for Fairview has recently been the beneficiary of two outstanding efforts from two different groups of young people that prove the naysayers wrong.

First, the students of Fairview Elementary School wrapped up their annual Food for Fairview food drive a few weeks back. The winning grade level was to receive a pizza party, sponsored by Gloria Berlin Allstate agency, in recognition of their efforts. We are pleased to announce that the winner was: the 3rd graders! Incidentally, this same group also won the year before when they were 2nd graders. Cash and can donations were both accepted, with one dollar equaling one can of food. We were thrilled to receive the equivalent of 2,386 cans of food from this food drive! Way to go, Fairview Elementary students!

Second, we also benefited from the efforts of EmmaRae Fender, AC Reynolds High School senior. Each senior in the state of NC is required to complete a senior project at part of the prerequisites for graduation. EmmaRae chose to complete a “Farm to Table” project, studying such diverse topics as organic gardening, GMO’s, and hunger in our area while completing tasks such as working at The Lord’s Acre garden and cultivating the school’s garden. Her culminating project was a fundraising dinner for Food for Fairview. We were thrilled to receive $2,610 and 103 cans of food due to her efforts! Many thanks to EmmaRae as well as her friends and family who worked together to make this successful event possible.

As I grow older, I too wonder how the world will fare in the hands of today’s young people. It is comforting to know that, at least in our community, we have nothing to worry about.