The Power Within Us to Make a Positive Difference

written by John O’Farrell, Associate Director of Marketing and Development | November 21, 2024
Headshot of John O'Farrell
John O’Farrell, Associate Director of Marketing and Development

During the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, I often take time to reflect on the year gone by and how my own choices have contributed to making a positive difference in the world around me. It could be decisions concerning my own family circle, the community in which I live and work in, or even within my own sphere of well-being. Believe it or not, each of us has the power to make a difference in the world around us. Sometimes the key lies in just starting by taking small steps each and every day.  

You see, making a difference doesn’t have to be complicated or grandiose to have a huge impact. It could be a simple act of kindness towards a complete stranger to brighten their day. For example, starting an upbeat dialogue with the hard-working person at the drive-thru window can go a long way for that person, who might be having a difficult day. Perhaps even holding a door open for someone with a handful of large boxes can provide a welcome reminder that there are people in the world that are willing to lend a helping hand; or even deciding to volunteer a couple of hours a week for a local non-profit in your community—it can all make a huge difference.  

You see, making a difference doesn’t have to be complicated or grandiose to have a huge impact.

Similarly, individuals sometimes might feel hesitant to make a modest financial gift to their favorite non-profit because they don’t feel that their gift is large enough or will make any difference. Nothing could be further from the truth. Every gift matters in supporting the good work that organizations do within our local community. For example, a contribution of just $10 per week can amount to an annual gift of $520, making quite an impact and helping to keep services going to those in need.  

For the past 50 years, LifePath has made a commitment to address local and regional needs of older adults, individuals with disabilities, and caregivers throughout Franklin County and the North Quabbin community, as well as in Berkshire, Hampshire, and Hampden counties. Providing over 40 different programs, LifePath has helped to strengthen our local communities. It truly takes the collective efforts of our volunteers, donors, staff, and community partners to make it all happen. 

We hope that you will join us as you look to make a difference in your local community, no matter how large or small, because your involvement matters. Remember, it takes all of us to make a collective difference. 

As I take a moment this Thanksgiving weekend, I am thankful to be a part of a great organization and the larger community, rooted in supporting and helping others, and am grateful to the many individuals who work so tirelessly in making a difference. Through your efforts, you truly make your local communities better places to live and work. Thank You!