Public employees across the nation give back to their communities in extraordinary ways every single day. From donating to food banks to helping their neighbors and protecting their communities, public employees have always been there when their community needs them the most.
Here are stories of public employees in service to their communities.
Plano police officer who beat COVID-19 donates plasma: “My opportunity to turn negative into something positive” by J.D. Miles. At the onset of the pandemic, many first responders, including police officers, firefighters, and paramedics, put themselves in harm’s way – sometimes without the proper personal protective equipment (PPE). In Plano, Texas, Officer David Tilley contracted the coronavirus after coming in contact with someone who was infected. After recovering, Officer Tilley did the best thing he could do to give back: donate his convalescent plasma to help others recover from the virus. Officer Tilley commented, “I didn’t even feel the needle stick which was great no problems at all.”
Librarian’s superpower is helping others by Roger Watson. Former teacher and current Cumberland County, Virginia Library Director Lisa Davis has been a shining light in her community since the pandemic began. After Davis was forced to shut the library’s doors, she continued to make sure that students and members of the community were able to access the books and materials they needed. Davis commented, “You wouldn’t believe how simply answering the phone and fielding patrons’ questions made them feel less alone when they were stuck at home.” Not only did she keep the library running, but she made sure students had the books they needed as well. She continued, “My favorite part of being director is hearing about children who are excited to show a teacher the books they got at the library. I love seeing an adult smile that a book they wanted to read is now available. I love watching an adult learn how to use a computer or a program during a class we offer.”
Sagamore Middle School teachers make video to make students smile by News 12 Staff. When students were sent home during the pandemic, teachers across the country found innovative ways to keep students happy and engaged. At Sagamore Middle School in Holtsville, New York, several teachers put together a video singing and dancing to “Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond. The video can be found in the link above. Needless to say, I think this made their students smile.
Be sure to check back next week for more stories of public employees giving back to their communities!
