The Mississippi River Flood of 2011 wreaked havoc for people and businesses alike. The waters, which reached historic levels, forced many businesses to shutter their doors.

One of those, DiamondJacks Casino, sent all of more than 200 employees home — with full pay — throughout the 36-day closure. The company’s commitment to its employees is exemplary.

The deal came with a catch, though.

Employees would have to volunteer with any of six different charitable organizations in Vicksburg and surrounding areas.

Included were the Child and Parent Center, The Salvation Army, Good Shepherd Community Center, Vicksburg-Warren Humane Society, all in Vicksburg, and Christian Volunteer Service in Port Gibson and Stewpot Community Service in Jackson.

Each organization is a worthwhile enterprise that relies heavily on the caring of others. Without volunteers, charities suffer.

DiamondJacks Casino — and other companies that decided to do what was right and take care of the employees who make their business thrive — should be lauded as examples of caring and thoughtfulness.

We salute the employers and employees who, while thrust into turmoil because of the Mississippi River, took care of their own — and others as well.