Like so many things in life, creating a special hometown Christmas holiday requires hard work, sacrifice, and determination. Much of this effort is carried out by unsung local heroes who do it simply because they love their community and cherish the Christmas season. They don’t seek recognition or accolades — the joy they feel seeing others enjoy this magical time of year is thanks enough. But I believe they deserve more.

For starters, there wouldn’t be a holiday tree in downtown Lewistown without the dedication of one local business owner’s wife. Every year, she takes it upon herself to secure the town’s tree, coordinating with Lewistown Borough and others to ensure it is placed and lit just in time for the downtown festivities.

Then there are the streets of downtown Lewistown. This year, a local group, Deck the Downtown, decided to elevate the holiday atmosphere. They recently spent one of their precious days off work gathering and arranging garlands, lights, and snowflakes along Market Street–all just because they wanted to spread a little extra cheer. In their words, “We have big dreams of making our quaint little town come alive for the holiday season,” and they have done just that.

Another example of our community’s collective holiday spirit is the beloved Festival of Ice. Organized by the Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau, this event would not be possible without the countless volunteers who dedicate their time to set up, manage, and tear down. From stringing lights and running electrical to chalking vendor spaces and closing streets, these behind-the-scenes tasks are handled by an army of volunteers who work alongside the event organizers to make it all happen.

At the end of Market Street stands the fountain, a majestic farewell centerpiece as visitors and residents leave downtown. To kick off the holiday season, a small group decorates it with garlands, lights, and oversized ornaments worthy of a big city. A few years ago, another resident decided that cascading lights mimicking falling water would be a stunning addition. He purchased the lights himself and donated them to the fountain group. This year marks the third Christmas they’ve graced the fountain, delighting everyone who passes by.

Who hasn’t marveled at Shining Light Through the Darkness at Kish Park? What began as one woman’s vision has grown into a spectacular walk-through light display enjoyed by thousands each December. The event is only possible because of the many businesses and individuals who volunteer their time, materials, and energy. Just imagine the meticulous planning it takes to run electrical cords through the park, crisscrossing in a tangled web to bring the lights to life.

East Waterford is another beautiful example of a community coming together to collectively celebrate the holidays. Their event, An East Waterford Christmas, began in 2022 and has grown significantly each year thanks to their wonderful group of supporters. The event has a nostalgic, hometown feel with vendors and activities including a town tree lighting event featuring a Christmas hymn, singing, prayer, and candle lighting.

In every township and borough, downtown areas are beautifully adorned with lighted holiday decorations, painstakingly mounted each year using bucket trucks and ladders. This extra effort,

often shouldered by already busy municipal employees, transforms our communities into winter wonderlands. For this, we owe them our gratitude.

The spirit of Christmas isn’t just about decorations–it’s also about giving back to those in need. In our community, a local church has embraced the Toys for Tots program, collecting and distributing toys to children who might otherwise go without. Their generosity ensures that every child experiences the magic of the season.

Another local church, in partnership with local radio stations, raises tens of thousands of dollars each year to support families in need. These efforts ensure that no one is left without a Christmas meal, gifts, or warm holiday memory. We have all seen their iconic red kettles and ringing bells as volunteers brave freezing temperatures to help their neighbors in need.

We are equally blessed with food banks across Mifflin and Juniata Counties, which stand ready to provide for those less fortunate. Many are staffed entirely by volunteers who willingly give of their time to ensure others don’t go hungry during the holidays.

Of course, our furry friends are also not forgotten. The dedicated volunteers who step up to care for them are a beautiful testament to the power of kindness and compassion. These selfless individuals often use the holidays as a time to remind the community about forgotten pets who need care. The money and items collected provide food, medical care, and shelter for neglected and animals, offering them hope and a second chance at life.

Mahatma Gandhi wisely said, “The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.” If this applies to small communities as well, then thanks to these remarkable volunteers, we can hope to be judged favorably and found not wanting. Their work reminds us of the importance of empathy, not just during the holiday season, but every day of the year.

While I may not have mentioned everyone due to time and space constraints, I hope this serves to highlight the extraordinary people who make our holidays bright. To the unsung heroes who give without expecting anything in return: please know that you are seen, appreciated, and deeply valued.

Thank you for making the Juniata River Valley a better place for all of us. Your dedication inspires me and so many others to find ways to create Christmas magic together.

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Rhonda Kelley is the executive director at the Juniata River Valley Chamber of Commerce.