Light a Fire 2020

Greenwich magazine, November 2020 (and all Moffly Media editions)

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Honoring Those Who Went Above and Beyond in Unprecedented Times

We have honored Light a Fire winners—our admirable neighbors who donate their time, money and passion to a myriad of causes—for thirteen years, but this year is like no other. This year, when the COVID-19 pandemic put Fairfield County in the eye of the storm, most of us just wanted to curl up in a ball with a laptop and Netflix subscription and wait it out. Even the authorities gave us an excuse, even a command, to stay at home. But brave people among us—some essential workers and others who determined volunteering was more essential than ever—masked up and did what our Light a Fire winners always do: put everyone else ahead of themselves. Only this time, going to work at a homeless shelter every day, delivering hot meals to families who usually depend upon school for that, providing childcare to healthcare workers—these deeds carried with them the risk of grave illness and even death. To the organizations honored here, the people who run them and volunteers who serve them: our deepest gratitude and thanks for all you have done and continue to do in these unprecedented times.

One theme kept recurring during the interviews for this story: the struggle is not over. People have lost their livelihoods, homes, loved ones, and economic recovery will be slow. The needs for food, shelter, support, and hope will continue to be overwhelming this winter. Read about each of these organizations and consider where and how you might help. Perhaps you will find yourself in these pages next year. 

Please pick up a copy of Greenwich, Westport, Fairfield Living, Stamford, or New Canaan/Darien magazine to read my interview with each honoree. This is my food-for-the-soul must-read pick for 2020!