It truly is. I had a personal tragedy and lost my twin sister and mother in 2009. My oldest sister was concerned that I would lose my mind (a legitimate fear) from being alone. She and her husband are members of a local chapter of Sertoma, and she signed me up to volunteer with them at all of their fund raising events throughout the year. The Chili Cook-off is my absolute favorite because it always has the highest attendance and I see people I've known all of my life, and always make "new" friends.

I honestly can't say it's an altruistic event for me - I do it not just because we're raising money for children's charities, I do it because it makes ME feel good - not only being a contributor, but having fun at the same time.