The events of the last week, although tragic and scary, also bring home a point:

We couldn't be prouder to live in northern Colorado, where neighbors care about one another.

The massive tornado that destroyed homes and buildings -- and took one life -- in central and west Weld County this week will be remembered for generations.

But we also won't forget the caring and commitment shown by thousands of Weld County residents to help their neighbors, co-workers and family members who were affected by the tornado.

"I've never seen anything like this in my life," said Brian Fowler of Greeley. "It's phenomenal."

Fowler wasn't referring to the size of the tornado or the path of destruction it left.

Fowler is director of United Way's 2-1-1 calling operations. He was referring to the outpouring of support and volunteerism exhibited by Weld County residents in the 24 hours after the tornado hit.

"There's been a wealth of caring coming out of the community," said Tori Baldwin, marketing director for United Way of Weld County.

In north Greeley, the Weld County Food Bank has a similar story. They put out the word late Thursday and early Friday that they needed volunteers to pack food boxes for displaced residents. More than 50 volunteers showed up Friday morning, making 1,200 emergency food boxes.

In neighboring Larimer County, the 2-1-1 calling operation received 1,500 calls between Thursday afternoon and Friday night. That's 10 times normal. They had to call in 10 people to man the phone lines -- volunteers, of course -- and they took the names of hundreds of people who are willing to pitch in.

"People just want to help," said Tracy Hays, director of Larimer's 2-1-1 center.

Then there was Krista Beeman and her mother, Ronda Burns, of Windsor, who on their own went to their church of 22 years to help clean uprooted trees. During the middle of the day, several vehicles drove by offering Arby's sandwiches and water -- all free, of course.

Somehow, we think Gilcrest, Greeley and Windsor will survive the tragedy of last week. It's because of the people, the caring, the compassion shown by people across northern Colorado.

A tremendous amount of hard work remains. The financial impact will run into the millions of dollars. The emotional impact may be even bigger. It won't be easy.

But we also can find a reason to be thankful during this time of tragedy.

We happen to agree with Mike Rais, a Windsor resident whose home was destroyed when the twister passed over the Cornerstone neighborhood. Rais said he has relied on his faith during these difficult times, and he marveled at the offers for help he has received.

"It's nerve-racking, of course," Rais said. "You're nervous, and you're worried about what's going to happen. But some way, you just know it's going to be taken care of."