SOUTH FORK— Everyone loves “The Little Engine That Could,” that all-time American classic tale of the determined little engine that, despite its size, triumphantly pulls a train full of toys to the waiting children on the other side of a mountain. This story, which teaches the values of hard work and optimism, bears similarity to another small, but no less determined nonprofit called the Friends of South Fork.
Remember the beautiful holiday lights around the trees at South Fork Town Hall last Christmas? The spectacle made a lasting impression as it garnered a sense of pride and optimism in the South Fork community and now will become an annual holiday tradition. This endeavor was masterfully carried out by a small group of determined South Fork volunteers – now known as the Friends of South Fork. Like the little steam engine, the Friends sought help. In this case it was private donations to purchase lights and equipment. With determination, optimism and many volunteer hours, over $7000 was raised from residents, visitors, business owners, nonprofits and other interested individuals to make this event possible.  
The Friends models itself after an Ohio organization founded in 2006 called 100 Women Who Care. The idea was born out of a desire to fund projects that benefit a charitable cause and the structure was for each member to commit to giving $100 per quarter – the approximate cost of a nice dinner for two. In this case, South Fork is the cause and membership in the organization is open to all who care to join. When the Friends membership grows to 100, $10,000 would be available each quarter to fund a project or event that benefits South Fork. Members meet quarterly, although attendance is not mandatory. Members learn about prospective projects or events to which funds could be applied and are welcome to submit their own ideas as well.
Having recently filed with the Colorado Secretary of State as an unincorporated, nonprofit association, which is a legal entity formed when at least two people agree to pursue a common lawful purpose that is not for profit, the Friends of South Fork is now officially off and running after hosting its first annual meeting June 19 at the South Fork Community Building. They are working on numerous projects including getting Graeser Field, located just north of the Community Building, ready for community ball play and beginning phase one of placing conduit underground at town hall, the site of the Christmas lights, so the lights can be displayed seasonally throughout the year for all to enjoy. All the while, the Friends continue to actively pursue new members.
Like “The Little Engine that Could,” the Friends of South Fork needs help to move forward with projects that benefit South Fork. In the face of many obstacles, the little steam engine learned the value in asking for others to work alongside her to achieve a common good— in that case very, happy children. In this case, the Friends of South Fork is eager to continue spearheading projects and events that positively set South Fork apart and highlight its amazing natural beauty.
A heartfelt thank you goes to the members (see adjacent listing) of the Friends of South Fork who have generously helped make these projects possible!
For more information/questions about the Friends of South Fork, email [email protected] or call Kris Steffens at 719-850-4838.