People who care deserve our thanks
Good deeds are what drove the first Thanksgiving.
As the story goes, the pilgrims' survival was in peril that first winter in the New World. Food was scarce, the weather harsh, and nearly half of their numbers perished. But because the Indians befriended them and shared their knowledge of the land, all enjoyed a plentiful harvest in the fall.
Without that help, the bounty wouldn't have been. The three-day celebration in 1621 became a symbol that later led Americans to set aside time to reflect on the good things in life. In 1863, President Lincoln declared Thanksgiving an annual holiday.
The tradition of giving thanks continues, and behind it remain the good deeds of people in our communities.
You'll see some of their faces on the pages of our Neighbor sections today. The stories tell of do-gooders throughout the suburbs who make our towns, faith communities and local organizations thrive. They are driven to ensure that those in need also have something to be thankful for.
They offer a modern version of the First Thanksgiving story.
Among them are Fred Rodgers of Aurora and Jill Harris of West Dundee, who take it personally if people in their towns don't have something enriching to do with their time.
Fred worked as Aurora's director of youth services for 24 years. He introduced programs in sports and the arts that kept young people from drifting toward drugs and gangs. No less than 25,000 children have benefited from his compassion and commitment.
When the recession pared down the list of family activities offered in West Dundee, Jill, a mother of two, knew she could help. She planned and spearheaded six free events, including a dog show, kite-flying day and Halloween party. Jill's initiative and energy gave hundreds of residents a needed boost during a tough time.
The ranks of helpful people know no age limits. Each week, 16-year-olds Kelley Hopkins and Lauren Carr visit residents in hospice care in St. Charles. They chat about family, paint the women's toenails and share ice cream and laughs.
Their peer in service is David Nolan. Wearing a clown costume, the Glenbard West High School junior gets the attention of third-graders to tell them about seeking out natural highs rather than using harmful drugs.
Educators and sisters Chris Seminaro and Donica Seminaro Luzwick run a theater group that not only contributes to the art community in Schaumburg but also has raised thousands of dollars for local literacy groups. Since 1995, their Helping Others Through Theater has made fundraising an enjoyable endeavor.
In a year marred by uncertainty and suffering, the gifts these and other advocates for humanity offer are not only welcome but crucial to the survival of our well-being. Only gratitude is required of those of us who benefit.
In the spirit of those autumn days in 1621, we say thank you to those who care.