Love Rising: See a Need and Making a Difference
Love Rising is all about neighbors intentionally building caring communities—through their actions, attitudes, and everyday choices. For our 6th anniversary, we celebrated with three special events, along with our traditional Day of Reflection and Prayer, all centered on the theme: “See a Need? Make a Difference!”
We kicked off on July 7th with an evening conversation at Schultz Winery, featuring Newfane resident and community difference-maker Corrie Murray. Corrie shared how she founded Friends of Unified Sports, a service organization that creates opportunities for individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities. Inspired by her son’s experience, Corrie used her gifts and talents to address a need in our community. Her story—along with presentations from other local non-profits and service organizations—left attendees motivated to find their own ways to become “difference makers” in the world.
Our children’s event took place at Olcott Carousel Park, where kids enjoyed a puppet show, crafts, ice cream, and rides—all built around our “See a Need, Make a Difference” theme. Through fun activities, children shared ideas about how even the youngest community members can stay curious, notice local needs, and take action to help.
On July 15th, our Day of Reflection began with a morning prayer service in Krull Park. Local pastors led heartfelt prayers and offered reflections on bringing peace into our own lives and sharing it with the wider community.
Thank you to everyone who helped coordinate this year’s events and to all who participated. Together, we can truly make a difference—in our neighborhoods and in the world—when we choose to live Love Rising every day.
Photos by Richard Leader