Right now everyone’s heard of the “new normal” and all about “these uncertain times” and, we’ll admit it, we’ve said both of those phrases often. But what do those phrases even mean any more? We’ve been going through this for six months now and we’re realizing how easy it is as we’re continuing to do what we’ve always done; we’re just getting a little more creative with how we’re doing it. We’ve continued our work with so many in our community and we’re surprised with how easy and flexible everyone is, if you just approach things with a little bit of “can-do” attitude, some gumption, and a whole lot of “this is just crazy enough to work” thrown in for good measure. We’re able to continue working with Heathwood Hall as they are helping their students stay connected not just to their schoolwork, but to themselves as well.
Truth be told, we could all use a lesson in mindfulness. And the students, faculty, and staff at Heathwood Hall aren’t the only ones trying to live in the moment and roll with the punches. Early on in the pandemic, our community was hit hard – but that only helped us realize how strong we are together. We worked with Midlands Gives as their annual fundraiser for over 400 non-profits went virtual. We witnessed the philanthropic spirit throughout the Midlands as over $3 million was raised to help our neighbors.
And if that wasn’t enough to showcase the hope that lives here in our corner of the world, working with The United Way definitely does! The amount of care that every volunteer put into each disaster kit at the very beginning of this pandemic is enough to inspire anyone to “be the change you wish to see in the world,” to use an old, but accurate, cliche. Throughout all that the pandemic has put us all through, The United Way and Transitions continues to be there for the most vulnerable in our population 24/7. We are so humbled to be able to tell their story throughout all of this.
Telling these stories, and so many more, was made possible by clients who trust us to have their best interest at heart; we do everything we can to ensure that all of our shoots are socially-distanced not just for our safety and our clients’ safety, but for all those in the community that could be negatively impacted by any sudden illness. We want to take care of the community that continues to let us tell their stories because without the people throughout the Midlands, there are no stories to tell. We firmly believe that #StoryMatters.