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With 2010 here, we all could benefit from some much needed resolutions.

This year, I am still working on the ones I made for 2009, but hey, it is the effort that counts, right? I am still trying to manage my time better, get healthy, and find a suitable hobby for stress relief. I am succeeding at some, but failing at others. However, I battle on.

So in the spirit of New Year's resolutions, I have one that our community could greatly benefit -volunteerism.

At an early age, I was taught to give of my time and money to create a better community. Maybe it was due to Catholic schools or my parents' involvement in church, civic organizations, and schools. I am a serial volunteer - there is no cause too great or small for me to volunteer my time, and sometimes I tend to overextend myself with my good intentions. However, I always fall back to my "favorite causes" and do my best to make a difference.

Here are a few worthy volunteer opportunities in this community:

• Carroll Society for the Preservation of Antiquities: What could be better than preserving the unique character of Carroll County and its history? There are some dedicated individuals that work tirelessly to organize building restorations, the Merrill Museum, and even the very successful Carrollton Pilgrimage.

• Winona Business Association: If you are a business owner or leader, you should be a member of the Winona Business Association. This organization has accomplished so much this year with the first Clean Sweep Citywide Yard Sale, the Winona Crossroads Festival, and the Winona Christmas Parade. WBA is working hard to improve business in Winona, and with an aggressive agenda, volunteers are always needed.

• Winona Animal Advocacy Group in Winona or In Defense of Animals in Duck Hill: Okay, I might be a little biased on this one (it is my pet cause, pun intended), but there are so many needy animals in Carroll and Montgomery counties. Animal lovers need to stay active and assure our four-legged friends have quality lives as well.

• Montgomery County Economic Development Partnership and Carroll County Development Association: These two groups do everything they can to bring economic development to the area. Membership is essential to raise the needed funds, act as ambassadors, and establish good relations in the business community.

• Recreation sports: Coaches and other volunteers are always needed for Winona Recreation Park or Carroll County Recreation Park. What a wonderful way to make a difference in the life of a child.

• Schools: Every school I visit I am constantly amazed at the volunteer parents that are so dedicated to helping educate the area's children. I see them at performing arts events creating costumes and elaborate sets, riding along on field trips, and even helping coach team sports. Trust me, your child's school has plenty for you to do if you would just volunteer.

• Church: I volunteered to teach Bible school while I was in college, and I think I had more fun than the kids. Volunteering at your church is so fulfilling and it really builds that extended family atmosphere. Youth activities, finance committee, choir - volunteer your talents for the Almighty. Is there any better way to spend your free time?

• Relay for Life: Montgomery County has a long-running successful Relay for Life every May to benefit the American Cancer Society. Teams from businesses, churches, and civic groups compete to raise much needed funds for cancer research, and they have a great time at the event. Grab some friends. Form a team. Join the cause.

Again, these are just a few suggestions. Nothing is more rewarding than volunteering for a good cause. Determine your favorite and jump right in. You have nothing to gain but good.