Inspiring stories of everyday people and organizations in our communities giving Heartitude.
As the holiday season nears, the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation is initiating its annual campaign to provide gifts and hope to underprivileged children. The program, rooted in American tradition since 1947, encourages community support to offer comfort and joy during challenging times. Donations can be made online or at local drop-off sites.
Hormel Foods’ 2025 Class of 10 Under 20 Food Heroes showcases exceptional young leaders demonstrating compassion and empathy through impactful initiatives. From providing meals to the homeless to supporting foster children, these individuals embody the spirit of Heartitude. Their stories inspire others to act and contribute positively to their communities.
Heartitude.com emphasizes the holiday season as a time for gratitude and giving, highlighting Habitat for Humanity’s initiatives to promote safe homeownership. Corporate partners are creating opportunities for charitable contributions through various campaigns, enabling consumers to support affordable housing while shopping. Small acts can collectively make a significant impact in building stronger communities.
A new program in South Sudan, called Signs of Change, is training teachers in sign language, braille, and inclusive strategies to support children with disabilities. Funded by Education Cannot Wait and implemented by Light for the World and Save the Children, it aims to address the urgent need for qualified educators in inclusive education.
On September 10, Mount St. Mary’s University hosted the Emmitsburg Neighborhood Meal, where over 60 volunteers served 160 meals to local residents. This initiative, aimed at fostering community bonds through service, emphasized collaboration between the university and the town, supported by the university’s Center for Service.
Fifteen Central Florida business executives participated in Habitat for Humanity’s Executive Build 2025 on Oct. 6, aligning with World Habitat Day to combat the affordable housing crisis. They constructed a home for a local family while raising awareness about housing accessibility, emphasizing community cooperation to achieve affordable homeownership.
ProLift Garage Doors of Amarillo is hosting its third annual food drive on October 11, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at United Supermarket to support FILL WITH HOPE, which addresses student hunger in Canyon ISD. This initiative aims to help over 1,600 children facing food insecurity in the community.
Jersey Mike’s Subs partnered with Best Buddies International, donating 20 percent of sales from over 3,100 locations on October 11-12 to support inclusion for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The collaboration also aims to create employment opportunities for individuals with IDD in Jersey Mike’s restaurants, enhancing workplace culture.
Sherwood Cares, the charitable foundation of Sherwood Country Club, raised over $1.5 million at its “Havana Nights” gala on Sept. 21, 2025. The funds will support local nonprofits addressing children’s medical, educational, nutrition, and safety needs. The event attracted over 350 guests and featured comedian Heather McDonald as a speaker.
Philip Morris International’s U.S. businesses donated $100,000 to Connecticut Foodshare during Hunger Action Month to combat food insecurity. This contribution will provide nearly 200,000 meals to residents in need, as over 516,000 individuals face food insecurity in Connecticut. PMI U.S. emphasizes community support through donations and volunteer efforts.
Nearly 100 new teachers in Manchester, N.H. received classroom supply boxes valued at around $100 each, thanks to a partnership between Kula Cares and Southern New Hampshire University. This initiative, part of SNHU’s Back to School Teacher Supply Drive, aimed to support educators and highlight community commitment to local education.
On September 20, Fenway Park hosted the annual Jimmy Fund Day, organized by Virtual, Inc. and Team Russo, raising critical funds for cancer research and care. With over $9 million raised since 1992, the event highlights the dedication of supporters, including Team Russo, founded by Bob Russo in honor of his son, Rob.
