08/14/2026
One of my favorite things about being part of a community is seeing what happens when people decide to show up for each other.
Every year, local realtor Carla Rae Southard organizes a school supplies drive to help kids in our community start the school year with what they need. We love being able to participate, and this year, our communities came together to support more than 50 kids with backpacks and school supplies.
Looking at all of those backpacks ready to go is a pretty wonderful reminder that making a difference doesn’t always require something big or complicated. Sometimes it’s simply noticing a need, inviting others to help, and watching people generously step in.
I’m grateful for Carla Rae for continuing to lead this effort year after year, and for everyone who contributed to making sure these kids could walk into school feeling prepared and supported.
This is what community looks like to me. People using what they have, where they are, to make life a little better for someone else.
What’s happening in your community right now that you’re proud to be part of?
