As the current COVID-19 pandemic has lately seen a resurge locally and nationwide, many folks, especially those who live in small and rural communities, are trying to find fun and creative ways to help those who are most vulnerable while also connecting with new people for a good cause.

In Kingston, two locals have taken the task upon themselves to throw an “Old-Fashion Work Party” for two elderly households on Lindvog Road, whose yards are in need of some maintenance.

“This is the way Kingston used to be, this is what we want to maintain,” local Kingston resident Cheryl Steele said. “People are busy and COVID’s offering an opportunity to slow down and look at our neighbors and think ‘how can we help.’”

The other community member involved in this homegrown event is Wendy Faust, the owner of the newly opened Cookie Creations in downtown Kingston. Faust has been actively involved in the promoting process with Steele and will even provide two dozen or so cookies that read “Kingston Cares” for all volunteers who show up.

“There’s nothing to do in Kingston basically more than what you see,” Faust said of the current COVID-19 impact on Kingston events. “The elderly, that either can’t get out of their house because they’re disabled or in a home, they can’t get out here. It’s not that they don’t care, they just can’t.

“There are many neighborhoods in Kingston that need this,” Faust continued. “Not just the new people and the young people, it’s about the people who grew up here.”

The yard work will comprise of lawnmowing, weed eating, raking and any other appropriate tasks that can be taken care of, according to Steele. She hopes this kind of authentically organized event will occur in other neighborhoods that need it. Signs at the location advise volunteers to wear a mask and keep an appropriate distance from one another in efforts to help reduce the potential spread of COVID-19.

“We wanted to plant that seed so other people start looking after their neighbors,” Steele said. “We want to help people care about Kingston. This is an old-fashioned work party. This is an opportunity for them to get to know other neighbors. That’s how Kingston is, it’s a small town.

“The situation is that they need help and that’s why we’re here.”

The event will take place from 10 a.m. until noon, Saturday, Aug. 1. If you are interested in volunteering, reach out to Steele at 360-620-9121.