by Teresa Kutt, VP of Marketing and Communications, YMCA of Metro Denver
2020 has been a tough year for everyone. And it’s not over yet. Our country was fraught with a pandemic, and we also experienced our share of political and societal unrest. Despite these challenges, there are still many reasons to be thankful.
This list is not meant to minimize the harsh reality of 2020. Many people have lost loved ones. Jobs. People are struggling financially and emotionally. But today, we’d like to shine a light on the positives in the Denver community and all around us.
1. People helping people
Often, helping others can be a good way to get our minds off our own worries. Since the pandemic hit in March, there have been countless stories about how people in the Denver community have been helping others since then.
Too numerous to list, support ranges from monetary help to giving of one’s own time. Thankfully, key organizations in the community, including the Food Bank of the Rockies, Mile High United Way and the YMCA of Metro Denver, just to name a few, have been helping to those in need to stay connected, healthy and to keep their bellies full.
2. Furry friends find new homes
The demand for new furry friends across the state, as well as nationally, has skyrocketed. With an increasing number of people spending more time at home, many individuals and families decided the time was right to expand their families; many cats and dogs have now been placed in their fur-ever homes throughout Colorado.
3. Creativity blossomed
Creativity experienced a resurgence during self-isolation.
Artwork: New murals popped up throughout the Denver community. Inspiring works of art were created to bolster positivity, as well as to acknowledge and support healthcare workers and others on the frontlines of the pandemic.
Sewing: Many people dusted off their sewing machines and brushed up on their stitching skills to make masks for essential employees, as well as family members and friends.
Cooking: Cooking and baking also gained popularity in households across the country. Not only does trying out a new recipe provide entertainment, it also provides comfort and sustenance.
Virtual Connection: It wasn’t only schools that went virtual; many musicians, artists and museums opened their performances, shows and collections virtually, allowing individuals, families and students to explore new places and things from the comfort and safety of their own homes.
4. Family Time
For families regularly caught up in the rat race, 2020 has presented them with more time at home to connect, to spend time together and to enjoy each other. Many families in the Denver community report an increased sense of connection and communication among each other since the pandemic began.
Is there something you’re particularly grateful for? Please share it with us!
To learn more about health and fitness programs at the YMCA of Metro Denver, visit https://www.denverymca.org/.