“The happiest people I know are the ones who lose themselves in the service of others.”

This Gordon B. Hinckley quote sums up the 12 individuals featured in the cover story of the latest issue of Michiana Life in just one sentence. For the first holiday issue of our popular magazine, we wanted to focus on the giving aspect of the holidays, which we truly feel is the reason for the season.

Although the 12 folks featured range in age, gender, background and purpose, each of them emanates a positive spirit and an enormous passion for what they do: help others.

As you flip through your issue of Michiana Life, you will likely find stories about folks you know from throughout town. Jeff Neumann is spotlighted for his work with ACTION Ministries. Lacey Peters explains all the great things happening at the Niles-Buchanan YMCA. Jeff Kozinski touts the efforts of his students at Edwardsburg High School, and Ron Butts shares how people can help Cass County Animal Control.

I had the pleasure of interviewing six of the 12 difference makers featured, and as I spoke to my half of the givers, I continuously heard a sense of urgency to share the mission of the organizations each person serves. The individuals were excited to share the impact of their respective organizations and the life-changing success stories that have resulted from that organization’s efforts.

This level of enthusiasm was matched with an equal amount of humility when asked what his or her role in making that mission come to fruition. These individuals could not wait to relay the message they work so hard to convey, but they did not want credit for the countless success stories made possible because of their efforts.

The Michiana community is fortunate to have such dedicated, selfless individuals serving those less fortunate 365 days per year.

As we celebrate the holidays and look for our own ways to give back to those in need, I urge you to follow the lead of these exceptional difference makers. Find a cause near to your heart and donate what you are able — be it time, money or resources.

When we help others, we gain a new perspective on how fortunate we are to have all that we do. When we share our hearts with others, our own grow twice as large.

This is evident in the constant smiles on the faces of our 12 difference makers this issue.

If you need help finding an opportunity to volunteer or give back to your community this holiday season, the November-December issue is the perfect tool. Find Michiana Life on shelves at local grocery stores, doctors’ offices, hair salons and travel agencies or chambers of commerce. If you cannot find a copy, stop by Leader Publications’ office at 217 N. Fourth St. in Niles, or the Amtrak Train Depot in Dowagiac.

This season, we hope you join us in dedicating yourself to the service of others and have yourself a blessed, happy holiday.

Ambrosia Neldon is the general manager at Leader Publications. She can be reached by phone at (269) 687-7700, or by email at ambrosia.neldon@leaderpub.com.