Community Corner
In Their Own Words: 8 Inspiring Reasons Our Neighbors Give Back
There are few things as rewarding as getting involved and volunteering in your own community. Take it from these local activists, volunteers and other influential community members, who have shared with us their motivations for making a difference.
By Cari Barcas
For the past two months, we've been bringing you stories of hope and heart from across the Chicago area through a partnership with Grape Nuts to highlight members of our communities who are making a difference locally.
As the series ends, we're taking a look back at some of the most inspiring quotes from the people we featured in our series. There's no time like the present to get involved in your town; just take it from these local heroes.
- "My inspiration for taking on this challenge is to be a voice for the voiceless."
—Tracy Garcia, Pit Bull Rescuer Faces a Mountain of Fear and Misunderstanding - "I told (my youth group) to pray about how they could use their gifts from God to help others. I started doing that as well. The answer I got back was: Do what you love to do more than anything else, and will you do it for free?"
—Chris Baker, Tattoo Artist Helps Girls Escape Life in the Sex Trade - "My parents always wanted me to be as independent as possible. They treated me just like my older brothers. I knew if I had the right mindset anything would be possible.”
—Mary Kate Callahan, Disabled Athlete Scores a Big Win for Handicapped Competitors in Illinois - "For me, the most precious thing I do as a lawmaker is giving people rights. We have a powerful opportunity as elected officials to do this.”
—Sara Feigenholtz, The Long Journey to Change Minds About Marriage Equality - "The experience pushed me to my human limit, but I look back on it and I am grateful for it."
—Tom Kaider, Man Paralyzed in Prime of Life Never Stops Following His Passion - "I think my job is to be a hope holder and encourage people to dwell in the possibilities. ... I help people understand inclusion and welcome people with disabilities by opening their hearts, minds and doors for them."
—Bridget Brown, Disability Doesn't Even Slow Down Bridget Brown - “If you take the time to listen, you can change that person’s life."
—Rosie Colucci, 8-Year-Old Cancer Patient on Mission to Help Others - "What has most inspired me is the power of kindness, of compassion to care for others and the power of touch. When there were no words, a hug kept me going."
—Kathy Miller, Joliet Women Climb Mountain in Support of Caretakers
What are your reasons for giving back? Tell us in the comments.
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