Without them, their village would be a much poorer place.
And now three community stalwarts have been given their just rewards for dedicating their lives to a small Norfolk village.
For as long as anyone can remember, the Rev Caryll Brown and her husband Richard Brown have played a pivotal role in East Harling life.
The couple married and made their home in Norfolk nearly 50 years ago, worshipping in the village for much of that time and getting involved in activities such as church cleaning, flower arranging, organising meals on wheels and being school governors.
The Rev Brown was ordained as a local minister at Harling United Benefice in 2013, having started training three years earlier.
Meanwhile Philip Blades - known affectionately as Chid - was born in the village and has played a key role in East Harling life, which has involved organising village fetes and researching the village's history.
He was instrumental in setting up the Harling 10k and chaired Harling Colts Football Club.
But he could also be called on to help in any number of village projects, using his skills as a carpenter to support East Harling.
The trio were given the Honorary Freedom of the Parish of Harling at a glittering awards ceremony, with a framed certificate saying it was 'in honour of the eminent, valuable and devoted services which you have rendered to the Parish of Harling'.
Kate Filby, clerk to Harling Parish Council, said of the awards: 'In this day and age we've got so many people moving in from all over the place that it's possible for East Harling to lose its identity as a small village.
'One of our parish councillors came up with the idea and these awards most definitely do bring the community back together.
'It's a really heartwarming experience to be a part of.'
It is the second time the awards at Harling Old School Hall have been held, with six residents being honoured at last year's event - David Gee, Dr Paul Jonason, Dorothy Jubb, Roy Kemp, Heather Kenny and the Rev Varlie Sheldrake.
Do you know an unsung hero who deserves recognition in your community? Write, giving your full contact details to newsdesk@archant.co.uk
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here