Dear Friends,

This has certainly been a week we will never forget and, unfortunately, not for the best reasons. What we all witnessed on Wednesday was a very sad day for our country and for all communities across America. It was a day when our democracy was threatened – not from outside forces but from those within. Personally, I was sick to my stomach on several fronts. First, what we take for granted – a peaceful transfer of power – was attacked in a way that I would have never thought possible, and second, everything we work for locally – a civil society that works together to address issues and bring people together – seemed crippled.

The events we are living through are unprecedented and can easily be distracting, but I am inspired by what I see every day on a local level. Greensboro is a strong, caring community, and we are known for supporting and serving our community in times of challenge. As our nation grapples with what divides us, we can provide the example locally of what can be achieved when we focus on the good of one another and what can be accomplished when arms are linked together.

Meaningful change comes from building and nurturing relationships and encouraging civil conversations, and Greensboro has proven this to be successful time and time again over the years. And we will continue to do so.

As your Community Foundation, we believe what’s important is found in what we have the privilege of doing everyday — working with our community to make it stronger, working with individuals who love our community, and working with each other in this common purpose.

To our community partners and fellow residents, we are ready to step up when and where it is needed and ready to set an example of how to better move forward together.

Please take care of yourselves and your loved ones today and know we are holding each of you close.

Walker Sanders
President, Community Foundation of Greater Greensboro
January 8, 2021