The Very Rev. Paul Carlson told Rauh that if she wanted to feed the hungry, then there’s no place like home to start. Carlson was the pastor at St. Patrick Catholic Church, where Rauh is an active member, and people in need regularly knocked on the door seeking food donations.

We hope the stories in this special edition serve as a reminder that heroism doesn’t have to be extraordinary to matter.

Hugo Saltijeral is executive director of Valley Sheltered Workshop in Batavia – after a second career serving the homeless at Hesed House in Aurora.

When people comment to Beth Saffell about what the Jefferson/Lincoln PTO is doing or not doing, Saffell sees an opportunity.

Jennifer Mobley, co-founder of “Big Hearts of Fox Valley” with her husband Minor, said she’s witnessed first-hand the power of a community coming together. Her nonprofit unites the police and fire department, schools and volunteers to help St. Charles D303 students in need.

When Roger Wittenauer sat down to chat with firefighters from the Amboy and Sublette fire departments at an Amboy Fire Department Depot Days breakfast a few years ago, he mentioned he missed the fire service.

They don't wear capes. They drive through snowstorms, feed the homeless, and show up every single day for the people who need them most. Meet more 2026 Everyday Heroes in McHenry County — and the readers who wanted to say thank you

She leads her business with compassion, always putting her employees first and creating a supportive environment.

At any hour and in any weather, two retired firefighters dedicate themselves to assisting fire departments in emergency calls across McHenry County by keeping bellies full and hearts warm.