Why the Real Heroes of Thanksgiving Deserve More Than Just a 'Thank You'

Here in the United States it’s the season of Thanksgiving. It’s a time we get together with friends and family for good food and football. It is also a time when many remember those experiencing poverty with donations.

Some generous souls buy an extra turkey and donate it, others volunteer at a food bank, some bring warm clothes to their local fire station or church. There are many ways to give and make a difference this time of year, all coordinated by amazing volunteers who work at the charities and nonprofits, which are busier than ever this time of year.

While these good people take care of those in need, who is taking care of the good people who work and volunteer at these organizations? Who is helping the helpers?

One of the non-profits we support at The Culture Works is Ability Beyond , founded more than 70 years ago. Ability Beyond has grown to provide services to more than 3,000 people living with disabilities across Connecticut and New York. Their mission is to discover, build, and celebrate the ability in all people. A wonderful mission realized by even more wonderful people.

For several years now we have donate our time, training, and resources to help develop the caregivers at Ability Beyond so that they can take better care of the people they serve. It is our way of helping the helpers. We are happy to provide leadership development; help them manage their mental health and anxiety; and make sure their culture is inclusive, caring and productive.

Too often we forget that those who help often need support as well. Donating time and support can make all the difference for them, their mission, and the people they are helping every day. https://abilitybeyond.org/donate/

This year, our team were humbled an honored to receive the Celine Karaker Memorial Award from Ability Beyond and their talented CEO Jane Davis, who thanked us for our support of their leaders and employees. I couldn’t be at the ceremony, so my wife Heidi accepted the award for me and my co-authors on the book “Anxiety at Work” Adrian Gostick and Anthony G. .

The crystal award is beautiful, and the General Assembly Citation from the State of Connecticut was an unexpected addition to the day. What meant more to us than anything was that our work in helping build resilience and reduce workplace stress was making a difference for people who make such a difference. They displayed the true meaning of thanksgiving to us.

So, I ask the question to all of us. What can we do to help the helpers around us? Can we take a moment to thank those who serve us, our children, our community, and those non-profits we value? Can we donate some of our time? Can we buy a hot chocolate for the volunteers collecting at the store? These little things can make a big difference.

This season of giving, please remember everyone in your life who is making a difference. Let’s make this Thanksgiving season one of kindness, gratitude, and service to those who need it most and to those who make it all possible.

I would love to hear how you are celebrating this Thanksgiving season. What are your traditions? How are you making a difference.

Love + gratitude,

Some Fun Stuff ??

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The Gratitude Files??

Anxiety at Work podcast. Each week, my co-author and dear friend, Adrian Gostick , and I are grateful for the opportunity to talk to leading authorities on mental health and explore the causes of workplace stress and anxiety, along with practices that are proven to reduce tension & cultivate calm.

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?? Key Topics Covered: ?? The Science of Positive Psychology: rewire our brains to focus on gratitude and resilience, even during difficult times.

?? The Power of Short Bursts: can have a profound impact on mental well-being.

?? Morning Rituals for Mental Health: The importance of starting each day with a calming routine. In this episode, hosts Adrian Gostick and Chester Elton explore the science behind rewiring our brains for positivity with Marc S. Fussell , founder of the nonprofit Take 2 Minutes . With over 25 years of IT experience, Mark has developed a suite of tools that leverage positive psychology to improve mental wellness. He shares his journey from sending daily positive messages to his son to creating a platform that offers gratitude journaling, meditation, and grounding exercises. This episode uncovers practical strategies to manage anxiety, build resilience, and develop daily habits for a happier, more balanced life.

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