MA Stories That Made You Smile In 2025

From heroic rescues to joyful New Year arrivals, communities across Massachusetts found plenty of reasons to smile in 2025. These heartwarming stories span hospitals, classrooms, retirement homes, animal shelters and city streets, showing the wide reach of small acts that make a big difference.

Whether it was the first babies of 2025, young people stepping up in their schools and neighborhoods, or a police officer running into a burning home, each moment offered a glimpse of the compassion that binds the Commonwealth together.

First Babies of 2025 Bring New-Year Joy

UMass Memorial Welcomes First Baby Of 2025

A baby boy named Ezra was born at 12:01 a.m. Jan. 1 — becoming the first baby of 2025 at UMass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester.

Hamilton Family Welcomes Beverly Hospital’s First Baby of 2025

As Massachusetts hospitals ushered in the New Year, new life brought a sense of hope and community to families across the state.

Youth & Schools: Inclusion, Volunteerism and Civic Spirit

Danvers Siblings Share Story Of Autism Support, Inclusion

Siblings Jackson Skane and Taylor Skane spoke to young students about growing up with autism and the importance of acceptance and understanding.

Danvers Community Set To Rally Around Unified Basketball Debut

The community is coming together for the debut of a new Unified basketball team — pairing students with and without disabilities to play together as peers, showing inclusivity in action.

Saltonstall Kindergarteners Have Winner With 'Chicken Nugget' Dinner

Students at Saltonstall Elementary School in Salem won a contest to name the city’s new garbage truck — “Chicken Nugget” — showing how even the youngest residents can take part in civic life.

High School Student Leaving Volunteer Legacy At Newton Retirement Home

Matthew Ding has spent years volunteering at the Golda Meir House retirement home — helping with tech support, front-desk work and even playing piano for residents, lifting spirits across generations.

More Good News from Around Massachusetts

Tewksbury Officer Commended For Saving Residents From Burning Home

A police officer in Tewksbury rushed into a burning house and helped evacuate three sleeping residents before firefighters arrived, earning praise for his quick thinking and bravery.

Rabbit Rescue Garden Helps Baby Bunnies and Injured Wildlife

In Danvers, a group of unpaid volunteers turned a simple backyard garden into a haven for abandoned or injured wild rabbits. Their efforts helped orphaned baby bunnies recover and — whenever possible — prepare to return them safely to the wild.

12 Days Of Cheer In Barnstable: Making This A December To Remember

As the holiday season begins, Barnstable is embracing the spirit of the season with “12 Days of Cheer”: local light displays, cozy holiday markets, and family-friendly activities designed to bring the community together.

MA Animal Shelter Support Coalition Marks 1 Year With Fee-Free Pet Adoptions

The coalition reports more than 740 dogs and nearly 200 cats found new homes since its founding last summer, offering extended free-adoption events to help pets and people alike. P