Support and love all our neighbors

As I reflect on all that encompassed 2016, I can't help but consider my 2015 reflection. My hope remains strengthened by the simple acts of many people who live in our community. Cedar Rapids was able to boast of another moment of truth that showed who we are, and who we can be if pushed to the limit.

Our family was amazed by a similar 'moment of truth” in the midst of the house fire we experienced in September of 2015. In my reflection letter last year, I shared how grateful we were for the community of support, but felt a sincere need to remind anyone who would listen that paying it forward for others should never feel optional. What motivated that charge? My concern for all - those with and those without a voice in our community. I wanted to make sure our community continued to spread the support and love to our neighbors who might not have the same visibility or platform. There will always be those in need.

Then, during the Summer of 2016, this community was pressed into action again. When potential floodwaters were assuredly going to place our city under water again, an 'all hands on deck” mentality took over the city. When the leadership of the city and county made clear what the potential damage could be, Cedar Rapidians from all quadrants and citizens from surrounding towns helped secure homes and businesses of loved ones and strangers from the rising waters.

As Horizons, A Family Service Alliance, the organization for which I am responsible for sustaining, started planning for the eventual flooding, we were bombarded by individuals and groups who showed up to help. My wife, LaNisha, was experiencing the same level of community support at the African American Museum of Iowa. It wasn't just happening at Horizons or the AAMI, but all over the city. We felt hope. At that moment, no matter what, we knew we would be better off this time than we had been in 2008.

Though I will never know if my challenge from last year actually had a direct impact on the actions of those during our recent flood, I am grateful for those who were moved to action to help all our neighbors. I am always humbled by the manner in which we treat each other when the stakes are highest, and our willingness to carry each other's burdens.

' Karl Cassell is president and CEO of Horizons, A Family Service Alliance. Comments: kcassell@horizonsfamily.org