During a recent government meeting, community leaders emphasized the urgent need for volunteers to support various local events and programs, particularly the upcoming Brookhaven Family Day, which is celebrating its 37th year. The event, which attracts over 1,800 residents, relies heavily on volunteers, yet organizers reported a significant decline in participation over the past few years. Currently, only 20 to 25 volunteers are available, and more help is needed for tasks such as food distribution and event management.

The discussion highlighted the importance of community involvement, with calls for residents to contribute even just an hour of their time to ensure the success of Family Day and other local initiatives. The need for volunteers extends beyond Family Day; youth sports programs, including Brookhaven Babe Ruth and girls' softball, are also struggling due to a lack of support. The basketball program, which was recently revived, is at risk of being discontinued unless more volunteers come forward.

Additionally, the Brookhaven holiday parade is organized by a mere ten volunteers, who manage multiple roles during the event. The fire company, a critical service in the community, also seeks volunteers to maintain its operations and keep costs down for residents.

The meeting underscored a broader theme of community responsibility, with officials urging residents to step up and participate in local governance and events. The message was clear: a thriving community requires active involvement from its members.

In a separate discussion, council members addressed ongoing investigations related to local law enforcement, clarifying that delays are not due to council members but rather procedural issues involving legal representation for officers. The council remains committed to transparency and resolution of the matter.

The meeting concluded with a call for public engagement and a reminder that even small contributions can make a significant difference in the community.