“Strange, isn’t it? Each man’s life touches so many other lives. When he isn’t around, he leaves an awful hole, doesn’t he?”
— Clarence the Angel
One of the enduring lessons of “It’s a Wonderful Life” is how one person can make a difference.
This year, with a nod to the holiday classic, our 2020 vision has a special focus: Spotlighting the George Baileys in our midst. We’ll tell the stories of volunteers and difference-makers who significantly affect the lives of others for the better.
We are calling our yearlong series Heroes Among Us: Everyday Helpers Make a Difference.
In this issue, we share how a special Alzheimer’s chorus was formed in Alaska to provide healing and hope through music and community connection. With pen and camera, Dave Labelle lovingly shares a story of uplift. His reporting and photography put you there in a way only Dave can. See video and more here.
As part of the monthly storytelling, we aim to encourage service to community. We’ll accept reader nominations for both an adult and a youth volunteer hero. We will select an adult and student to profile at year’s end, along with a tangible reward for each. More details are on page 15.
If there is a story you think we should tell in your community, let us know at info@pur.coop.
Together, let’s earn our wings.
Leon Espinoza
Editor