The United Way kicked off its fundraising campaign last week, but there are also three other large fundraising projects that local residents can participate in.

The Jay C. Hormel Nature Center, the Paramount Theatre and the Wescott Field Renovation Project are three worthy causes that will each benefit Austin and the surrounding communities.

Austin is fortunate to have all three of the aformentioned institutions. The Nature Center provides a respite for those with hectic schedules, offering trails and wildlife in abundance. The Paramount hosts movies and performances in a unique setting that was common some time ago, but not anymore. Wescott Field gives us a chance to showcase our facilities to visiting high school teams, along with providing something for local residents also.

We support the efforts of these projects and hope this community will continue to do so as well.