The Good in Every Day

Brian Treece photo
Brian Treece - President & CEO of The Community Foundation

As the year draws to a close, I wanted to share one final thought: Let us work to recognize all of the good that happens every day in our community.

It’s easy to identify the problems, the challenges, the things that keep us up with worry and stress. We’ve probably all had conversations at home or with friends where we talk about the negatives and lament better times.

When I think about Findlay and Hancock County, however, I think about the good. I see far more good every single day than anything else. Here are a few of the ways I see good:

  • I see a teacher who gives a student a hug or reassuring smile, letting them know they will have a good day at school.
  • I see nonprofit leaders, staff, and volunteers working to help our community's most vulnerable, showing the dignity and respect we all deserve.
  • I see first responders risking their safety and well-being to help others in a crisis.
  • I see community spirit at so many local events: farmers' markets, WinterFest, performances at schools, events at the Marathon Center for the Performing Arts, or in individual villages, and any place our community gathers.
  • I see support for local businesses, especially during this busy shopping season, when people choose to shop downtown or eat at a local restaurant to support their neighbors' livelihoods.
  • I see many people giving their time and talent and volunteering with local nonprofits.

Above all, I see us all looking out for each other. While we can acknowledge we may disagree and not always see things in the same way, at our core, I also see how we genuinely care about each other. You will often hear me say we are at our strongest when we work together. The way our community gives and unites during the holiday season is one of the best examples of this.

Together, we can choose to see the good, and together, we can make more good happen. Consider all the ways we can do this – helping one another in need, giving your time and talent to help others or nonprofits, and yes, making a financial gift to The Community Foundation or another nonprofit.

Sharing with all of you is a highlight of my role at The Community Foundation. Thank you for reading our editorials each month and for sharing your thoughts. Happy Holidays!

This editorial was originally printed in The Courier Thursday, December 26, 2024.