A tradition of giving

’Tis the season for giving in America and we’re reminded yet again what a difference we can make in the lives of people in need.
We are truly blessed here in Hamilton County, though you don’t have to look hard to find people who for whatever reason are struggling this time of year. Giving of one’s time or treasure is a chance to make a difference, one person, one family at a time.
Hamilton County is known for its generosity, with a history of supporting various non-profit organizations and charitable causes. That tradition is something to be proud of, and also sets the bar high for generation after generation to seek out opportunities to take care of our own. The need is especially great this year in the midst of a pandemic, and so too is the challenge of running a campaign following all the necessary COVID-19 protocol.
Giving a donation that provides a holiday meal, a gift for a child who might not otherwise find much underneath the tree, or supporting causes with a pledge that will pay dividends throughout the year is what the season is all about. 
You can start with the Hamilton County Food Pantry, which will carry on its annual holiday distribution Saturday, Dec. 12. If you’ve never seen the expression on people’s faces as they receive all the makings for a holiday meal, or two, you should know how genuine they are. It’s a feel-good experience for everyone involved that day, including the volunteers who are giving and the local families who are receiving. 
Another effort worthy of your holiday consideration is the Heartland United Way. Many of the 17 non-profit agencies which benefit from this regional fund-raising effort, including the Imagination Library for example, serve residents here in Aurora and throughout Hamilton County. In other words, this is a chance to write a check or authorize a payroll deduction which will directly impact people with specific needs in your community.
There are other regional opportunities to give, of course, including the Salvation Army kettle campaign and various church drives. Each is led and organized by volunteers whose hearts are in the right place. As you are looking over your holiday gift list, we urge you to pencil in one or more of these most worthy causes.
Kurt Johnson