Cass County Connect
Cass County Judge
Travis Ransom
The Heart of a Volunteer
“There is nothing stronger than the heart of a volunteer.”
These words from Jimmy Doolittle, famed leader of the Doolittle Raiders, continue to ring true—especially in our community. Volunteers are the quiet strength behind so much of what makes our home a place we’re proud to live in. They give not because they have to, but because they care— about their neighbors, about their country, and about creating a better future for the next generation.
In Matthew 22:34–40, when Jesus is asked which commandment is the greatest, He answers with two: love God, and love your neighbor as yourself. It’s a powerful reminder that the most meaningful way to serve God is often by serving others. And that’s exactly what our volunteers do.
I am deeply grateful for the people in our community who choose to live out this calling every day. They give their time, talents, and resources—not for recognition, but for the good of others. Whether it’s organizing events, coaching youth, cleaning up parks, supporting local nonprofits, or serving on civic committees, volunteers take ownership of our community in the best way possible.
I’ve often said, democracy doesn’t work—you have to work it. It requires citizens who are willing to roll up their sleeves and get involved. It takes people who believe in the strength of community and the power of participation. It’s not always glamorous, and it’s certainly not always easy. In today’s divided world, it’s refreshing—encouraging, even— to see folks step up, take initiative, and lead with heart.
In this newsletter, we’ll highlight a few local organizations that thrive because of volunteers. If you’ve ever wondered how you can make a difference, this is a great place to start. Joining one of these groups is more than just helping out— it’s becoming part of something bigger than yourself.
To all of our volunteers: thank you. Your work matters. Your example inspires. And your heart makes our community stronger.
Lions Club International
The Atlanta Lions Club meets at noon every Wednesday at Luigi’s Italian restaurant in Atlanta, Texas.
The Linden Lions Club meets at noon every Thursday at Fry Way 59 restaurant in Linden, Texas.
The Avinger Lions Club meets every second Monday at 5:30pm at the Main Street Education & Event Center in Avinger, Texas.
The Lions Club is a shining example of service above self. Known for their commitment to sight programs, disaster relief, youth outreach, and community improvement, our local Lions Club members work tirelessly to meet the needs of our area. They are always ready to lend a hand where it’s needed most, and their efforts help bring both vision and hope to our community.
Rotary Club International
The Atlanta Rotary Club meets at the third Thursday of the month at 6pm at Luigi’s Italian restaurant in Atlanta, Texas. The Four-Way Test of the things we think, say or do is a test used by Rotarians world-wide as a moral code for personal and business relationships. The test can be applied to almost any aspect of life.
Is it the TRUTH? Is it FAIR to all concerned? Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS? Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
Rotarians live by the motto “Service Above Self,” and our local Rotary Club exemplifies this spirit every day. From supporting education and local businesses to spearheading international aid projects, Rotary connects leaders who are passionate about positive change. Their hands-on projects and scholarship programs are helping shape a better future for all.
Caddo Area Council - BSA
The mission of the Boy Scouts of America is to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law. Our local Packs, Troops, Explorer, and Adventurers are associated with local Churches or other Civic Clubs as their charter organizations. These groups help develop leaders and good citizenship just as they have over the past hundred years of scouting.
The Boy Scouts of America instill values of leadership, responsibility, and community service in young people. Our local troops not only develops future leaders, but they also give back through service projects that improve parks, support local events, and assist neighbors in need. These young scouts—and their dedicated adult leaders—are a cornerstone of civic involvement.
Amity Study Club
Atlanta’s Amity Study Club was founded in 1960 and for over 18 years, they have collected e-waste (electronic waste) annually. They meet monthly from September to May. Each month they pick a project to be involved with. They have been a big supporter of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). From collecting e-waste, assisting with blanket drives, or supporting local literacy programs at the library, the Amity Study Club is constantly addressing needs in the community.
The Amity Study Club is an international organization. Locally, 12 clubs are in the Trinity District.
Atlanta Area Women’s Club
The Atlanta Area Women’s Club (AAWC) is an organization dedicated to promoting volunteerism and caring for community through the service of our members. The club consists of women from all walks of life who have a strong commitment to the improvement of society.
This group helps with youth scholarships as well as area beautification. If you’ve seen the painted fire hydrants around Atlanta, you’ve seen some of the unique talent from this group.
Atlanta Hospital Auxiliary
The Christus St. Michael-Atlanta Hospital Auxiliary is a hard working, dedicated group of volunteers. They help welcome and direct visitors as well as operate the gift shop that raises money for the Christus St. Michael-Atlanta Hospital Foundation. These are avid supporters of local healthcare and help “extend the healing ministry of Jesus Christ” through their volunteerism.
Property Fraud Alert Program
Property Fraud Alert is an online subscription service offered to the public for free that allows them to have their name monitored within the County Clerk’s office in order to track possible fraudulent recordings that affects their property.
Volunteerism
It takes three kinds of people for any successful initiative. We need people who can build the door with sweat equity, people who can pay for the door with their financial support, and people who can open the door to new audiences through their personal social network. You can make a huge difference in your organization, community, and world if you know where you fit in and how you can contribute. I encourage you to find other like-minded people to work with for the betterment of our shared community.
Upcoming Events!
June 28th is the 2025 Community Fireworks Show around 9pm at the City-owned property near the Atlanta Baseball & Softball Sportsplex - Call 903-796-2192 for more information.
July 4th is the Hughes Springs Hometown 4th from 7:30 - 9:00 pm at the HSISD football stadium.
Reach out to my office — P.O. Box 825 Linden, TX 75563 Phone: 903-756-5181, Ext. 0 Fax: 903-756-5732