OBAMA's news:What remains constant in this crisis

Hi there, The world is a very different place than it was just a few weeks ago. But even as we adapt to weather this crisis, some things remain constant. The importance of looking after our communities. The need for big-hearted acts to help the most vulnerable. Hope. The necessity of hope never changes. Last week, we began sharing the stories we were hearing of individuals and organizations doing their part to lift up others during this crisis—and asked you to submit your own.  Since then, we’ve seen dozens of submissions from people stepping up to do what they can, whether it’s volunteering their time, donating resources, or simply taking the opportunity to brighten someone else's day. It is an essential part of our mission to inspire people to make their communities better. As we grow this collection of stories of hope, we wanted to highlight a few of the stories that might inspire you. Thank you for helping us build this reservoir of hope—and please keep your submissions coming. The world may be changing, but the need to uplift others never will.  —David   STORIES OF HOPE FROM THE OBAMA FOUNDATION "Like so many middle schoolers, 13-year-old Miah is spending hours every day online in school. On her breaks, she will draw, chat with friends and ride her bike. We have an elderly neighbor who walks daily around the block using his walker. To make his trip pleasant, she has been drawing chalk art on the sidewalk. Little bits of visual happiness for his daily walk." —Julien S., Salt Lake City, Utah   For 44 years, the Carole Robertson Center for Learning has provided childhood development programming to low-income families on the West Side of Chicago, some of whom have been hit the hardest by the COVID-19 crisis. While they can no longer convene in person, they have continued to support their community.   "I am a 61-year old RN caring for my 96-year old mother while I telework full-time from home. This week alone, I've had two different neighbors I didn't know come by and ask if we needed any help or if they could pick up anything at the store for us. I could have cried at their kindness as no one had ever done that before in the 30 years I've lived here." —Dora A., Hermosa Beach, CA   “This is a time to come together in solidarity, even as we keep our physical distance.” I Grow Chicago are no strangers to helping their neighbors during times of crisis. In response to city closures, they have delivered over 150 meals and provided books, games, and soap to families. We're continually adding to this global stream of hope. Explore more stories of hope here. And tell us about the stories—big and small—that are lifting your spirits.   Many of you are already doing so much to keep your families, loved ones, and communities healthy, but if you're able, you can find ways to support others in need by donating to an organization near you.   TAKE ACTION NOW