Volunteers donate untold hours making Central Oregon a better place. Without them, the community fabric would fray and innumerable good things wouldn’t get done.

But just as important, they make themselves part of that fabric, gaining lifelong friends and connections as well as the satisfaction s of valuable tasks accomplished.

Right now, when schools might not be on the radar for many of us, the Bend-La Pine School Board is seeking a new member to represent southern Deschutes County.

Board member Mike Jensen has resigned, effective July 31, after two years representing Zone 4, which includes La Pine and Sunriver. The board is accepting applicants until 4 p.m. Aug. 8 and plans to interview candidates and select a new board member before its Aug. 19 annual retreat.

School board membership is a demanding assignment, but its satisfactions are more than a match. To get a personal perspective, contact current school board members by email or phone listed on the district website under the school board tab. The south county position is particularly critical because the La Pine schools must address issues that sometimes differ from the rest of the sprawling district.

If schools aren’t your thing, other options abound. While the city of Bend has closed the application process for its urban growth boundary committee, you can see its other citizen committees on the city website by going to Departments/City Council/Committees, Advisory Groups and Task Forces. It’s a pathway into a part of city life that’s often obscure but can affect our lives in myriad ways. Also take a look at Departments/Administrative Services/Volunteer Program for a variety of other ways to get involved and do good.

Another option: The Bend Park & Recreation District is looking for members of a citizen advisory committee focused on Shevlin Park. See its website or call 541-706-6152.

You’ll find volunteer opportunities with other governments and organizations throughout Central Oregon at their websites. This is a welcoming place for volunteers. For further inspiration, see The Bulletin’s volunteer search list at www.bendbulletin.com/volunteer or see a shorter, printed version on Saturdays in the Community Life section.