It has long been a source of pride for me that we in the United States have set aside a day each year to give thanks for our blessings. This year on our day of mindful gratitude, I will count among my blessings living in a community with so many caring and devoted people who work daily to improve the lives of others. Through my involvement with Heart of Kentucky United Way, I have become keenly aware of the many nonprofit organizations – and the good people who staff them – that serve our community. During the COVID pandemic, the social safety net these organizations provide has become even more essential to the quality of life in Kentucky’s heartland.

A wise older friend taught me years ago that gratitude has a twin: generosity. The best way to express gratitude, real thankfulness, is through giving. While giving is not just about money, financial resources are essential to any organization’s ability to fulfill its mission. So, if you are blessed with sufficient resources to have some leftover after meeting your needs and those of your family, please consider an expression of gratitude that will help others who are less fortunate. Should you choose to give to the Heart of Kentucky United Way, you will assist 42 programs (in the Heart’s four-county area) and, most importantly, the people who benefit from them.

Best wishes to you and those you love for a Happy Thanksgiving.

Richard Trollinger
Danville