SENIOR LIVING:  Pride is Alive in Hurley

By Linda Browning, Director of Grant County RSVP Volunteer Program

The Hurley Pride committee is a unique organization founded by citizens of this small mining district town which, though rich in history, in recent years has been struggling to maintain its identity in Grant County and New Mexico.  Longtime residents remember a vital community with rich traditions that has been diminished since the closing of the copper smelting plant that had employed and supported the town for many years. 

Though the mines are still in operation, new technologies and changing times have moved the smelting operations out of the area.  Hurley residents have had to seek employment elsewhere and many relocated.  Recently however, there has been a new influx of energy and community spirit.  Members of the Hurley Pride Committee in collaboration with the town council and Mayor Baca, have been involved in everything from weeding flower beds, to painting guardrails, from organizing a classic and custom car show with the local Finer Limitz car club, to sponsoring a Christmas lighting contest and parade.  

Membership is diverse, combining long-time residents with relative newcomers.  Anglos, Mexican-Americans and other ethnic groups are represented, as well as a wide range of professions, experience and ages.   Discussions can be lively as various projects and issues are debated at committee meetings, but everyone’s opinion is given respect and consideration and decisions are based on member votes.  Periodic potluck dinners encourage the camaraderie and sense of family that is such a valuable facet of this group.   It is important to remember that everyone is a volunteer, including the officers and board members; no one is compensated monetarily for their time and contributions.

This year, the car show in September will be a two day event with music, vendors, a petting zoo, softball and more.  Vendors and organizations wanting booth space should contact HPC as soon as possible, to insure being included.

From its inception in June 2006, our senior neighbors have  supported the Hurley Pride Committee with their enthusiasm, energy, experience and expertise.   Many give uncounted hours of their time.  They are truly an invaluable resource and the backbone of HPC.  Speak to any one of them however, and they are more likely to tell you, not what they give to the committee, but what they receive; an opportunity to be of service, to maintain established friendships and develop new ones, to take pride in their community.

In acknowledgement of this fact, the Committee was invited to become a designated RSVP station, through Grant County Senior Services, Inc.  The proposal passed unanimously.

The RSVP (Senior and Retired Volunteer Program) is  a federally assisted program which encourages volunteerism and community involvement.  Volunteers’ hours are logged and reported to the federal program, resulting in increased funding for senior services in Grant County.  Hurley Pride joins a number of other local stations in providing community services and a wide range of volunteer opportunities for active seniors.  For more information regarding Grant County Senior Services, call 505-388-2523.

It is hoped that Hurley is and will be an example and inspiration to residents in other mining district communities, as to what can be accomplished with a common goal and perseverance.  Certainly, anyone interested in starting a similar organization in their community is welcome to attend HPC meetings and call on members for advice and encouragement.

HPC supports itself through member dues, contributions and the sale of t-shirts, caps, license plates, mugs and other souvenir items, and are in the process of applying for 501-c-3 non-profit status which will enable them to apply for grants to support and expand their efforts.  The burrito and tamale dinner fundraisers have been a great success and there is a spaghetti dinner fundraiser being held Saturday, June 23^rd.  Tickets are available at various locations in the area, including the Hurley Town Hall, and the JW Art Gallery/Old Hurley Store as well as from committee members.

In addition HPC recently acquired and renovated a concession wagon, The Hurley Pride Pantry, from which they sell popcorn, hotdogs, snow cones, nachos and other snack items at  area-wide events.

The committee supports other community needs and efforts in whatever ways are possible.  Following the flooding last year, HPC sent two truckloads of donated food and household items to the town of Hatch to assist in their recovery. 

HPC meets on alternate Mondays in the Hurley Community Center on Carrasco Street.  The next scheduled meeting will be June 25^th, at 6:pm.  All are welcome to attend, though only committee members may vote on proposals.  For additional information, or to purchase merchandise or tickets to events and fundraisers, please call 537-2124.

For additional information on becoming an RSVP volunteer contact this writer at 505-388-2523 or srvolunteer@zianet.com.