Latoi Wilson, of Dowagiac, is the city treasurer and a member of the Young Professionals of Greater Dowagiac. Wilson will be one of many members of the service organization who will volunteer during Friday’s Fourth of July fireworks show, which begins at dusk at Russom Park.

How long have you been a member of the Young Professionals?

About a year and half.

What made you want to join?

The community is only as good as the people who live there. I wanted to do my part to give back.

What have you helped the club with this year?

I was at the Daddy-Daughter dance earlier this year. I plan to clean up after the fireworks again this year. I’m looking forward to putting together the next Mommy and Son event. I’m waiting for the next ornament [the club sells] to become available.

Do you have an official responsibility with the club?

Nope, I’m not on the board. I have my hands full with my position here at the city, so I couldn’t really commit to being on the board, but I’m just doing what I can.

Have you helped with the fireworks in the past?

I did. I helped out last year, collecting donations and helping to clean up afterwards.

What do you like about volunteering with the fireworks in particular?

It’s a good family event. It is something that gets families on the community. It’s a free event. Kids are out having a good time. We have a pretty good reputation for being a good show, so I’m excited to be a part of it.

Approximately how members help on the night of the fireworks?

There were probably at least 20 of us last year. We had our reflective vests on, with our walkie-talkies, out collecting donations. We get to enjoy the show, too.

Why do you feel it is important to put this show on every year?

We are helping Dowagiac’s reputation. It was nice to be able to go around and see families from Niles and the surrounding area make it a point to come to Dowagiac to see our firework show. It’s building our reputation and giving our community an event to look forward too. It’s very rewarding to see kids out and enjoying themselves and Dowagiac.

Is there anything you want to say to encourage people to get involved with Young Professionals?

We are always looking for new members. We are open, and really trying to make Dowagiac a better place for everybody, to live here, be here and do our part.

People interested in joining the Young Professionals may find out more information online, at facebook.com/YPDowagiac.