Families, snow shovels and kindness drive WGAL’s 8 Who Care nominees | VOTING NOW OPEN

On a chilly November afternoon in Lancaster, the warmth of community kindness was palpable as residents gathered to celebrate the nominees of WGAL’s 8 Who Care. Among them was Jennifer Jarvis, a woman whose quiet dedication to her neighbors has transformed lives in ways that words can scarcely capture. As she looked around at the smiling faces, it was clear that Lancaster’s strength lies in its people—those willing to roll up their sleeves and serve with genuine love and humility.

What Happened: Celebrating Unsung Heroes

WGAL’s 8 Who Care program shines a spotlight on eight remarkable individuals across the Susquehanna Valley, each embodying the spirit of service that keeps our communities thriving. This year’s nominees include veterans, volunteers, and advocates whose efforts span from quilting to addiction recovery, all driven by a shared desire to uplift others. The program, now in its 2026 edition, recognizes their extraordinary acts of kindness and invites the public to vote for the one who has made the most lasting impact.

One standout is Jo Garvin of Dauphin County, who leads a dedicated quilting group that has crafted over 800 handmade quilts since 2017. Each stitch honors a veteran, a symbol of gratitude sewn into every blanket. Meanwhile, in Harrisburg, Linda Geesaman’s work with the Brethren Housing Association has turned empty apartments into warm, welcoming homes for families experiencing homelessness. Their stories remind us that small acts—like a handmade quilt or a furnished apartment—can profoundly change lives.

Community Impact: Acts of Love and Service

In Lancaster County, Jennifer Jarvis’s Snow Angels are a shining example of neighborly compassion. When heavy snowfalls threaten to trap seniors and vulnerable residents indoors, her team steps in to clear driveways and sidewalks, ensuring no one feels forgotten. “A lot of times, they feel like they’re left behind,” Jennifer explains, her voice full of empathy. Her volunteers’ efforts have helped more than 400 neighbors stay safe during winter storms, embodying the biblical call to love one’s neighbor as oneself.

The Power of Community Bonding

Another inspiring nominee is the Willow Valley Loomers, a group of women who have been knitting hats, scarves, and blankets for nearly a decade. Their gatherings are more than just crafting sessions—they’re moments of fellowship, prayer, and shared purpose. “It’s a really heartwarming group,” Wanda Reed shares, smiling at the memory of their latest project. Their donated items support local charities like the Salvation Army and the “Coats for Kids” telethon, demonstrating how community-driven efforts can bring warmth both physically and spiritually.

What’s Next: Honoring Faith and Family

The upcoming WGAL ceremony will not only celebrate these individuals but also highlight the importance of faith and family in building resilient communities. One nominee, Jessica Miller, leads the Side Street Mission, a nonprofit that provides supplies and hope to Lancaster’s unhoused population. Her heartfelt message is clear: “We want people to know they’re loved and seen.” Her work, fueled by her Christian faith, exemplifies the power of genuine compassion rooted in authentic relationships.

Similarly, Albert’s “Hero in the Fight” group in Harrisburg seeks to break the stigma of addiction by fostering community and understanding. Albert emphasizes that recovery is possible when people feel supported and loved. These stories underscore that lasting change begins with simple acts of kindness—whether it’s a conversation, a donation, or a shared prayer—grounded in faith and a commitment to family values.

Building Community Through Personal Stories

One of the most compelling aspects of WGAL’s 8 Who Care is how it humanizes the often unseen or overlooked. Take, for example, Matt Dorgan of York County. His story of turning grief into action after losing his daughter to suicide is a powerful reminder of resilience and hope. Matt’s initiative, “Building Bridges 4 Brianna,” aims to raise awareness about mental health and suicide prevention, making it easier for others to seek help and find community support.

Matt’s journey began with a simple desire to keep his daughter’s memory alive, but it quickly grew into a movement that has touched many lives. His speaking engagements at local schools, including Dallastown High School where Brianna was a student, serve as a stark reminder of the importance of mental health education. “She was a firecracker. Yeah, she was the light of the room. She would always be making everybody laugh,” Matt recalls, his voice tinged with both pride and sorrow. His efforts have sparked conversations about mental health, stigma, and the importance of community support systems that can save lives.

Community Leaders and Their Impact

Beyond individual acts, Lancaster’s community leaders are also playing pivotal roles in fostering a culture of kindness. The Lancaster Chamber of Commerce, for example, has launched initiatives encouraging local businesses to participate in volunteer efforts, recognizing that economic strength and community well-being are deeply interconnected. Local pastors, teachers, and elected officials are increasingly emphasizing the importance of compassion and service as core values that define Lancaster’s identity.

Take the case of Roda, a prison chaplain who has dedicated over three decades to helping inmates find new purpose and faith. His work at Lancaster County Prison and through programs like The Potter’s House demonstrates how faith-based initiatives can foster transformation, hope, and second chances. His wife, Karen, supports his efforts by working with women at another Potter’s House location and visiting inmates regularly. Their combined efforts exemplify the power of faith and family in healing and rebuilding lives.

Looking Forward: Building a Stronger Lancaster

As voting opens for the 8 Who Care award, Lancaster residents are encouraged to recognize those who exemplify the best of our community. The winner will select a charity to receive a $2,000 donation, further amplifying their impact. This initiative reminds us that community service isn’t just about individual acts; it’s about creating a ripple effect of love and hope that touches many lives.

Our community’s strength lies in its families—married couples who model steadfast commitment, parents who teach children the value of service, and neighbors who look out for one another. These stories of kindness and sacrifice serve as a testament to the enduring American dream: that through faith, family, and community, we can build a better tomorrow.

Looking ahead, Lancaster’s future remains bright with the ongoing dedication of its residents. Whether it’s shoveling snow, quilting, or simply sharing a kind word, each act contributes to a tapestry of hope and resilience. As we celebrate these heroes, let us also commit ourselves to carrying forward their legacy of love, faith, and service, ensuring Lancaster remains a place where everyone feels seen, loved, and valued.