NEW VINEYARD — Volunteerism continues to be seen in many ways around New Vineyard.

Doug Nile donated his time, talents, and machinery to remove snow from blocked entrance of the New Vineyard Public Library, which the library itself could not afford to remove. Over several hours, Nile cleared the snow, not only from the library, but from the entire building complex. 

Alden Wattles, a trail master of the New Vineyard North Snowmobile Club, was recently called upon to rescue an injured hiker from the mountain using the club’s rescue sled. Alden and Lynne Ricardo (co-trailmasters) oversee the maintenance of the club’s 21 miles of trails in New Vineyard, which are available for hikers, skiers, and snowmobilers.

Richard Woods and Richard Hargreaves volunteered to look into the refurbishing of Smith Hall and, on behalf of the Board of Selectmen, have evaluated its condition, cleaned and dried out the water-filled basement, and met with experts to get recommendations for repairs and remodeling. The project is ongoing and will be completed by early summer.

The New Vineyard Public Library, which offers many programs to the community, owes its existence and upkeep to volunteers who help out at every level. Saturday morning hours are covered by friends of the library and young people help with programs. Volunteers have done public presentations on a variety of topics, helped solve maintenance issues, and overseen fundraising events.

Volunteers came together to ensure the success of the Cabin Fever Supper on Feb. 25, an event to benefit the New Vineyard Public Library. Volunteers cleaned up construction dust, with the help of Frank “Fixit” Cushman from Farmington. Others donated food for the event, and Brent Laflin provided a musical performance. Other volunteers, including Lexie Daggett, EmmaLee Clark and Sen. Thomas Saviello, R-Franklin, served more than 70 people who came to enjoy good food, visit with neighbors, and check out changes to the Hall. 

Other New Vineyard organizations, which are made up of volunteers include the Fire Department, Planning Board, Historical Society, Cemetery Association, Comprehensive Plan Committee, library board of trustees and Appeals Board.

National Volunteer Week is April 23 to 29.