Each month we hear of wonderful people, terrific causes and benevolent deeds. Curiously, like single-issue politicians, but in a good sense, some people often entwine themselves into their causes so completely they disappear into the greater good they espouse. Others choose to scatter their largess more largely, looking, sometimes with criteria, sometimes not, for a chord to strike their heart. They look to see what good needs to be done, and then they do it-- or help do it.
No matter which, the task gets done.
In Ingram's December philanthropy edition, our custom is to recognize these compassionate souls who put others in front of themselves. Some feel like they've walked some distance in these others' shoes--some simply want to create something better. We've typically focused on these quiet heroes in the Kansas City area. This year we've expanded our horizon, just as the city itself is coming to realize that it is also part of a larger community of area counties. With the help of several trusted friends, we've explored Missouri and Kansas and found people making an enormous difference in their communities--one stretching beyond their smaller boundaries, creating ripples of influence whose impact may never be determined in our short lives. That impact has to be part of the reason these people give so selflessly. Certainly, none of them regard themselves as heroes. All are modest and talk far more readily about projects and other people's contributions than they do about themselves. They do however, all have eyes on the “greater good” in one form or another and have devoted a goodly portion of their lives to creating that goodness. We present people from Maryville, Lawrence, St. Joseph, Atchison, Harrisonville, Warrensburg, Ottawa and Topeka as demonstrations of the power goodness can have. We honor their contribution and commitment and recognize them as quiet heroes who help make their communities better places to work and enjoy life.
These people truly make a difference for "The Greater Good".
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John Foster
Dr. Robert Bush
Margaret & Adrian Harmon
Sally & Bud Cray
Marianna & Ross Beach
Irv Sheffel
Ransom Bennett