Catholic education has been an important part of life in Fort Dodge almost since the town was founded. After all, the first Catholic school got underway in 1862.

The succeeding 157 years have witnessed countless changes and progress.

One such progressive change is the impressive educational complex that is today’s St. Edmond, which is important not only to the Catholics in this community, but to the community as a whole.

The world of the 21st century is vastly different from the America of the Civil War era. Even so, the dedication of the Catholic community to the enhancement of its educational system, which was robust from the very start, remains a powerful force in our day. That’s a commitment that deserves admiration and helps build a stronger Fort Dodge.

But, as we are aware, schools are an expensive proposition. Privately funded educational enterprises can prosper only when those who prize their special qualities have the creativity and commitment to generate the monies required.

Here in Fort Dodge, the Friends of St. Edmond Ball is an especially important example of what innovative volunteers can achieve when motivated by an important goal.

This year’s Friends of St. Edmond Ball theme, Together We Can, is an apt moniker for such an enduring mission because for more than three decades the Friends have staged events targeting this important cause: keeping Catholic education a vibrant force in Fort Dodge and the surrounding communities.

The annual fundraising event has been a key part of the support strategy for the Fort Dodge Catholic school system since the first ball in 1984 generated a net of $50,000. Its subsequent success has been nothing short of spectacular — millions have been raised over the years.

When the many advocates of St. Edmond gather Saturday at the Best Western Starlite Village Inn & Suites for the 2019 incarnation of the ball, it seems likely they will once again provide a memorable display of support. Tickets can be purchased by contacting the St. Edmond business office at 955-6077.

Co-chairing the 2019 ball are Mitch and Jamie Lunn and Ben and Jenn Crimmins. Their volunteer job is hard work and deserves our gratitude.

There is great value in supporting this educational system, and there are important lessons to be learned by fostering such an annual tradition.

And there is enormous goodness at the root of the generosity that has made the Friends of St. Edmond Ball what it is: an enduring legacy.

Because when St. Edmond wins, so too does Fort Dodge and the surrounding communities.