Quiet hero - Jerry Foote

The group I volunteer for: I'm the treasurer for the Nevada County Concert Band.

What I do for the band: I collect money from the participants and donors and keep track of money we're paid for performances.

How I got involved: I've always loved playing in a group. My wife and I have lived here for about 18 years. When we got here, I just looked up the band and the orchestra and went to work.

Why I think this group's work is important: The band puts a lot of spirit into the town. Our conductor is really great at picking good numbers.

The best thing that happened while I was volunteering: We just have a good time. I enjoy the thrill of having the concert go smoothly. It's just nice that people can enjoy what we do while we enjoy performing.

The rewards I get from volunteering are: I know that the band is successful, that it's going to come back next year. I have the chance to see some of the young people perform, and I have the opportunity to please the audience.

Other volunteer jobs: I'm also a docent at the Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad and Transportation Museum in Nevada City, and I play the oboe with the Sierra College orchestra. We also volunteer for the Sierra Club and the Nevada County Land Trust.

Why I live in Nevada County: When my wife Donna and I retired, we felt we just had to get out of the city. At that time, we had a couple of daughters nearby, and we just loved this area.

The most important challenge that faces our community is: Agreeing on a growth plan without fighting over it and thinking everyone is stealing your property. Getting it planned well, without creating traffic jams, that's a real challenge.

I think volunteerism is important because: Volunteers just have to be there, whether you're working in a food bank to feed some of the less fortunate people or driving someone who needs a ride. Our community is getting older and older, like us, and there are a lot of things that need to be done.

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To suggest a western Nevada County volunteer for this feature, contact Dave Moller at davem@theunion.com or 477-4237.