RICK NORENBERG has a long history of charity work in the city, including organizing the Big Brothers soap box derby back in 1991 and 1992. His community spirit has passed on to his kids Adrien, Rachel and Rebecca, who have grown up to be active in community work. In times of trouble and grief in our youth, many of us turned to a big brother for help. Rick Norenberg has been a big brother to hundreds of kids through his involvement with the Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Dufferin.

"Rick has been a wonderful supporter of ours for years," says Nancy Stallmach, executive director of Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Dufferin. "The money he raises really helps our programs."

Mr. Norenberg's 18- year history with the organization got rolling, literally, with a soap box derby that was held in Mono Mills in 1991 and 1992. Not only did he organize the race, he and his fellow volunteers built 13 cars for the inaugural derby; a resounding success that drew close to 70 entrants.

Orangeville Home Hardware became an ardent participant in the event after Mr. Norenberg came into the store looking for 40 wheel barrow wheels.

Contributed Photo "They were a little reluctant to order them," Mr. Norenberg recalls, "because the wheels were something they may sell one or two of every two years."

Not only did Home Hardware end up ordering the wheels, but it became an active participant to the point where employees were building their own car in the store during business hours.

While a successful event, the soap box derby was time-consuming. Mr. Norenberg continued to support the Big Brothers and Big Sisters by consistently being one of the most prolific fund-raisers for the organization's annual bowling fund-raiser.

He can't take the entire credit, however, or nor does he tries to. He credits success to his co-workers at MacMaster Pontiac Buick GMC. He said Dealer principal Danny Bracket "is always encouraging to get out and do things in the community."

It also appears Mr. Norenberg's community spirit is infectious. His son Adrien and daughters Rachel and Rebecca are also active in area charities and staging benefit concerts.