by Stephanie Toews, Executive Editor

“To love another person is to see the face of God.” — Victor Hugo 

Recently, I was invited to speak to a group of 5th-grade girls about my career, inspired by the work Miss Lee is doing at Alkali Creek. She’s intentionally investing in a handpicked group of young ladies, encouraging and empowering them as they grow. What an honor it was to step into that classroom and spend even a short amount of time with them. There’s something incredibly special about watching someone love our kids well and pour into their lives. As parents, it means more than words can express. Sometimes, encouragement or wisdom from another trusted adult lands differently than when it comes from us, and that matters. 

Adoption and fostering are incredible examples of this kind of selfless love. Choosing to step into someone else’s story, whether for a moment or forever, is a remarkable act of sacrifice, compassion, and commitment. In this issue, we share the story of a local father whose road to parenthood unfolded through both adoption and biological children, reminding us that family is built in many different ways. Some of the most meaningful relationships in life are formed not simply by circumstance, but by intentional love and the willingness to say yes to someone else’s story. 

But care doesn’t always have to look extraordinary to matter deeply. Sometimes it’s mentoring a student, bringing a meal, or simply showing up consistently for someone who needs support. Other times, it’s an entire community coming together, like the donors and volunteers behind Landon’s Legacy Miracle League, whose efforts are helping create accessible spaces for all children through a playground, baseball field, and future splash pad. It’s a beautiful reminder of what can happen when people choose to invest in others. 

To the dads who work hard every day and still make the time to love their families well, thank you. As Father’s Day approaches, I’m reminded that the role of a father extends far beyond providing. It’s found in the quiet consistency of showing up day after day with love, guidance, patience, and presence. To the men who step into stories that need them, whether through adoption, fostering, mentorship, coaching, teaching, or simply being a steady support, thank you. The impact of a caring and dependable presence can shape a life in ways that may never fully be seen. 

As summer begins and schedules shift into a new season, maybe this is the perfect time to look around and ask ourselves who we can come alongside. We all have something to give, whether it’s time, encouragement, wisdom, compassion, or simply our presence. Often, the smallest acts of kindness become the very things that help carry someone through a difficult season. At the end of the day, community is built through ordinary people choosing to show up for one another again and again. 

Happy Father’s Day and Happy Summer! 

Love, 

Originally printed in the June 2026 issue of Simply Local Magazine

Read this article in the digital issue of Simply Local here!

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