Some people celebrate significant birthdays with a party or by traveling with friends, but Janet Willis MacLeod (GHS ’86) has chosen to organize and host a “Gratitude Drive” in celebration of her December 1 milestone. A 13th generation Gorhamite, MacLeod is active in many community organizations including the Gorham Food Pantry, the Gorham Conservation Commission, and the South Gorham Baptist Church. While honoring Happy Healthy Gorham’s “Kindling Kindness” November theme, MacLeod truly “kindles kindness” year round.

MacLeod is encouraging community members to share their gratitude for the season by donating blood and/or contributing to the Gorham Food Pantry on Black Friday, November 24. In a true ecumenical spirit, Jan, along with friends and family from surrounding communities and a variety of churches, will welcome shoppers (and non-shoppers) to stop by the South Gorham Baptist Church from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. for a free breakfast and to make donations. Participants are encouraged to sign up in advance at redcrossblood.org or call 800-RED-CROSS.

This Gratitude Drive will also honor the memory of Jan’s birthday twin, Janet Reid Willis, who passed away in February 2017 after a brief battle with cancer. Both Jans have been integral in promoting community involvement and have raised the bar for embracing kindness.