Inside Thursday’s edition of The News, readers found our annual publication celebrating National Volunteer Week, which this year begins on Sunday.

For our 2021 edition, The News profiled several young people who go above and beyond to help their communities, including:

∫ Ashley Nowicki, of Alpena Community College’s Student Leadership Commission

∫ Alison Hosinski, the Boys and Girls Club of Alpena’s Youth of the Year

∫ Mackenzie Bruning, who volunteers at St. John Lutheran Church and School, the Rogers City Area Senior and Community Center, and the 4-H Summer Rec program

∫ Mary Burns, who volunteers at the Huron Humane Society

It takes more than what we’re paid to do to make society thrive. Volunteers help those in need with everything from building houses to simple companionship, and we’re so grateful for their work — especially the young people who set shining examples for their peers.

If you see a youth volunteer next week, make sure to give them a huge thanks.

And, if you have the time and the ability, we encourage you to join them in making Northeast Michigan a better place.

(THE ALPENA NEWS)