Real Life Stories

Vickie Bradley is an integral part of the Jackson community thanks to her good samaritan heart and generous contributions to

Jean’s husband eats some homemade chocolate fondue with their grandkids. (Credit: Jean Rennick) Neighbors are always available to lend a

Despite being diagnosed with a brain tumor, 4-year-old Heath Owen is all smiles after surgery thanks to the loving support

You’re greeted by everyone who walks past you on the street with a smile, hello, or how are you even

When Walter was faced with financial problems the sweet people of Grand Junction lent him their services free of charge

The huge pile of wood donated by neighbors while a resident was incapacitated. (Credit: Jack Pierce) Friendly hospitality and a true sense

I recently moved here and the neighbors in this area are the most helpful and kindest people I’ve ever met.

A local military hero with only one leg helping to raise scholarship funds in the name of another local hero

Named a Finalist Because: Encapsulating the best of small-town America, the Doaks turn everyone into family—especially on Apple Butter Weekend.

Local resident, Geoffrey Auden handcrafts beautiful wooden American flags and donates the money to charity. (Credit: Ellen Ferrera) Sullivan is

A retired parishioner shovels snow from a widow’s driveway free of charge. (Credit: Nettie Wood) They respect all people regardless

As we visited the area, we were pleasantly surprised by the friendliness, hospitality, and kindness that we encountered during our walks

Doreen stands in front of the library, her favorite space to write and make new friends. (Credit: Doreen Frick) No

A parishioner gave the church organist a bouquet of pink roses thanking her for her instrumental talents. (Credit: Audre Kurowski)

Lyla and her classmates and friends hold up a banner that reads “Love for Lyla” to show their support for

Sophia Robinson, who suffers from two life-threatening heart conditions, gets a send-off from the Mariner Moose before she begins her

Craig, a 70-year-old resident, spends his time collecting food and distributing it to the needy. (Credit: Rachel Wilson) Buckingham is

Students celebrate their favorite principal’s birthday. John Wallace inspires his students every day to be the best they can be

The Mizpah Gate is a historical landmark that stands at the southern entrance to the Southwestern Adventist University. Students often

Locals often explore nearby national parks for a family hike full of stunning views and fun. (Credit: Susan Lafaele) We

Members of the community have created a “kindness tree” and posted it on a bulletin board at the local grocery

Norwood Stables gave Marguerite great happiness after she and her family endured many struggles. (Credit: Marguerite Fischer) Historic Savannah is

A proud American town raised money to build the tallest flagpole in Michigan. (Credit: Robert Earle) A great place for

Named a Finalist Because: In an era when kids get trolled for being different, the student body at Pflugerville High

A smile or hello from a stranger is guaranteed walking down Main Street. (Caption: Thomas Donovan) There is a lot

Residents frequently visit Grandview Overlook for picturesque views of Pittsburgh. (Credit: Carrie Rodzwicz) Not only does it have spectacular views

For four years the 26.2-mile Samuel Adams Starved Rock Country Marathon has become the “must do” event for avid runners.

Tourists from around the world and history buffs alike love exploring the Battleship Texas, the last remaining battleship in the

Locals from all walks of life pack into the coffee shop for great conversation and an even better cup o’