The Hurricane Ivan flood-recovery efforts will continue to produce heartwarming stories that demonstrate county residents' willingness to help people in need.

But two stories that emerged during the past week about the efforts of young people are especially notable because of the responsibility involved and the big amount of money collected.

First there was the story of Cecilia Weissert, 15, of Rochester, who ended up in charge of a pantry at Grace Church of Harmony, which came to be stocked with donated food and other supplies. Supervising such a facility is not generally associated with a person so young, but Weissert performed her duties well and probably gained much education along the way.

Weissert, who is home-schooled and a member of Grace Church, took a week off from school to volunteer her time to the flood effort. The paper that she is required to write in connection with her experience won't be one without significant substance.

Meanwhile, the story about Cub Scouts from Pack 360 and Girl Scouts from Troop 157 collecting $9,200 from motorists in Zelienople during a 10-hour period on Sept. 25 is gratifying.

The money was given to the Harmony, Jackson Township, Zelienople Relief Fund at Citizens National Bank in Zelienople. The fund was set up by local police to collect donations to help flood victims.

A picture of those who participated in the fund-raising effort appears in today's Butler Eagle. The young people's faces depict the happiness and pride encompassing their accomplishment.

Weissert was pictured on the front page of Tuesday's Butler Eagle sorting through various supplies received at Grace Church.

The flooded communities no doubt recognize the debt of graditude that these young people have earned.