Local unemployment rates aren’t something 90.4 percent of us think much about, unfortunately.

That’s because we are employed.

But for the remaining 9.6 percent of the population who can’t find employment, the story is more personal than any statistic can illustrate.

It’s about food, shelter, clothing, quality of life and pride.

Compared to other counties in Mississippi, Adams County’s unemployment rate isn’t so bad, but tell that to father down the street while he is looking for work.

Decreasing our county’s unemployment rate and putting fathers — and mothers — back to work must be a community effort.

Elected officials — despite what their campaign signs say — can’t simply bring jobs to town on their own. Natchez Inc. won’t be able to continue to land business and industry alone.

Instead, when each cog in the wheel turns together, our community will see unemployment stats improve.

In the meantime, it’s likely each of us may be able to do something to help those seeking work get back in the game. Be willing to share tips about job openings, recommend friends and assist in the job hunt for someone you may meet who may be searching.

You may not be in their shoes today, but no one knows what tomorrow holds.