Pat Fordice’s call to volunteerism is one we should all heed. The former first lady of Mississippi spoke to Natchez Rotarians this week, urging them to step up, reach out and make a difference.

It’s a simple challenge … one we should all consider.

As Fordice told the Rotarians, Mississippi has been ranked fourth in the nation for charitable giving — an impressive designation considering the widely disparate economic conditions of our state.

That’s a testament to Mississippians’ capacity for caring and our deep-rooted beliefs that we should share our blessings, no matter how great or small.

And, as we’ve said before, one of the best vehicles for giving — back to the community and to our society — is through the United Way.

As the United Way of the Greater Miss-Lou’s campaign gets under way, thousands of us across the area will be asked to step up — to give our fair share, or more if possible, to help our neighbors.

It is one of the most effective charitable giving tools around. For each dollar donated, 85 cents goes directly to the two dozen area service agencies funded in part by the United Way. These agencies provide a broad scope of service, from services for the aging to little league activities and programs designed to teach today’s parents how to build better families.

The challenge is, as Pat Fordice said, about stepping up … and giving back.

We believe the Miss-Lou can rise and meet that challenge … with the United Way campaign and in our everyday lives.