Sometimes the news can be, well, not so inspiring. When headlines get you down, it’s important to remember that positive things are still happening all around us. Here are five hopeful and encouraging stories to pay attention to this week:
The Photo Competition You Don’t Want to Miss
We’ve all spent hours online looking at funny pictures of animals, even if we don’t want to admit it. But did you know there’s an entire contest that revolves around finding the best funny animal picture? The finalists of the 2018 Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards have been released, and they’re all deserving of the award. The contest not only exists to entertain and award stellar animal photography. It’s primary focus is raising awareness about the importance of conserving our planet’s beautiful wildlife. Read more.
Food is Free in this Neighborhood
It’s an unfortunate reality that food deserts are becoming more frequent across the United States. Neighborhoods are losing grocery stores and delis; healthy food is becoming harder to find. One resident of Tacoma, Washington, wants to do what he can to help his community retain easy access to fresh, healthy food. David Thompson started growing produce in his garden and setting up a table with the sign “Food is Free” for his neighbors. Thompson says his backyard is kind of like life, “Sometimes you have to weed through the dirt before you can reap the seeds you sow, and if you have people to share the harvest with, that’s a life full of flavor.” Read more.
One Town Goes the Extra Mile
It’s an unfortunate reality that food deserts are becoming more frequent across the United States. Neighborhoods are losing grocery stores and delis; healthy food is becoming harder to find. One resident of Tacoma, Washington, wants to do what he can to help his community retain easy access to fresh, healthy food. David Thompson started growing produce in his garden and setting up a table with the sign “Food is Free” for his neighbors. Thompson says his backyard is kind of like life, “Sometimes you have to weed through the dirt before you can reap the seeds you sow, and if you have people to share the harvest with, that’s a life full of flavor.” Read more.
Dreams Come True
Justin Gallegos made history by becoming the first professional athlete with cerebral palsy to sign a contract with Nike. Justin has been running competitively for seven years and has even helped Nike design a pair of running shoes specifically for people with disabilities. John Douglass, Nike’s insights director, surprised Justin at a running practice where a film crew caught his reaction to the offer. “You don’t realize how realistic and emotional your dreams are until they play out before your very eyes!” Gallegos said. Read more.
Chance Makes Change
Chicago native and music artist, Chance the Rapper, recently announced he would donate $1 million to mental health services in his home city. This includes contributing $100K to six mental health providers through his charity, SocialWorks, with the aim of making resources more accessible, providing treatment, and fostering community. Chance also announced his charity’s plans to give an additional $100K each to 20 Chicago schools. Read more.