Everyone faces tragedy at some point in their life, although few things can be as devastating when it happens at an early age. To those unfortunate enough to experience this loss, a tragic situation can be made even worse if the individual allows the heartbreak of losing a mother or father to turn into prolonged bitterness or anger. On the other hand, it is a truly exceptional person who can not only overcome their tragedy, but can turn it into something positive to help others overcome their loss…

One person can make a difference, and everyone should try. These words were often spoken by John F. Kennedy, but if you ask me they aren’t said enough anymore. Imagine what kind of world we would have if everyone lived by these words. Thankfully, there are a lot of really dedicated and amazing people who take these words to heart and volunteer their time to help the less fortunate. These people deserve our thanks and appreciation. What’s even more amazing is when one of these people is someone…

“You can help people who are homeless in lots of ways. You can share what you have by donating food, clothing and some of your money, but mostly what you can do is be nice to them. If they are cold, share your mitts. If they are sad, say “Hi” to them and give them a hug. If they are hungry, lend them a sandwich – and just love them like family. They need that most of all”                                                                …

Just as he was giving up hope on ever graduating from high school, Salvador Flores found the PlatteForum ArtLabin Denver. During his student internship there, he worked on projects with skilled local artists, including a multi-media interactive exhibit at the Denver Museum of Contemporary Art, a mural for the People’s Fair Mural Competition and a series of public service announcements about the vital role of arts in education. Salvador learned the art of making a difference, and that it began…

I want to introduce you to Evan Moss, and his parents, Lisa and Rob, whose continuing story exemplifies the art of making a difference. Evan turned seven last year; and by the way, he also wrote and illustrated his first book “My Seizure Dog”. Yes, Evan is a typical little boy; he loves Pokemon, and his favorite cartoon is “Phineas and Ferb”. However, since infancy Evan’s epileptic seizures had left time for little else.   When Evan was four years old, he underwent brain surgery…

Jeff was just 12 years old when he was diagnosed with neurofibromatosis, a genetic disorder that causes tumors to form on nerves. For Jeff, the tumor on his optic nerve resulted in a dwindling ability to see. Jeff began chemotherapy and radiation when the tumor threatened to leave him totally blind. Jeff’s parents, Julie and Hal gave him a set of watercolors, so that while he was in treatment he would have something fun to do. It was when he began painting on notecards that they discovered his…

  Inspiration for making a difference in this world can often come from anywhere, including the acts of children. Today we want to introduce you to Alex Scott, a little girl who lost her battle with cancer in 2004, at the age of 8. Her spirit, her contribution and her legacy live on through Alex’s Lemonade Stand. Just before her first birthday, Alexandra Scott, known as Alex to her family and friends, was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a type of childhood cancer. Doctors gave her little chance…