As Thanksgiving arrives, we are reminded once again how fortunate we are to live and work in a place like Lea County; where people show up for one another, where collaboration is part of our culture, and where community is not just a word but a lived experience.
As the Vice President of Grants at the JF Maddox Foundation, I get to see first-hand the challenges our nonprofit community are facing, and I am always most proud to call Lea County home when I get to work alongside so many amazing nonprofit leaders and community members who work together to improve the lives of those around us. At a recent gathering with New Mexico’s Early Childhood Education and Care Department, local childcare leaders filled the room not just to learn about the state’s evolving childcare policy but to learn together. They asked thoughtful questions, shared insights across centers, and demonstrated the kind of collaboration that makes our community stronger. Moments like these remind us that when we convene people in Lea County, they show up with purpose and with heart.
When we asked our team what they were most thankful for about their work and this community, it was that same spirit of generosity and connection that echoed throughout their responses. As Carol shared, “I am thankful for our community of businesses and non-profits who are always willing to give of their time, energy, and money to pour into others in need.”
Sarah sees that spirit every day: “I am so thankful for the generosity of spirit in our community. I am proud to live in a place where the people are so caring. When a need arises, our community rallies and that says a lot about who we are.”
For Kawin, the gratitude is both personal and professional: “I’m thankful that I get to do such amazing work with such amazing people! I enjoy my work, my community, and the wonderful people I GET to serve. This work is not always easy peasy, but it’s ALWAYS WORTH IT! Lea County is a unique community regarding the way we band together across sectors to get things done with the goal of making everyone’s life better.”
Hilda reflected on what makes Lea County feel like home: “I am thankful for a sense of belonging in this community, where people know you by your name—most importantly for the community support during tough times and local volunteers who give freely of their time.”
For Marissa, gratitude lies in the shared mission: “I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve our community and to work alongside dedicated people who care deeply about Lea County and the families who call it home.”
David added his appreciation for the people who make the work meaningful: “I am grateful for the relationships I have been able to form in the community because of this work. There are so many incredible people that do meaningful things for Lea County.”
And Tori summed up what so many feel: “I am thankful to be part of a community that embodies thoughtfulness, generosity, and courage. Lea County is a place I am truly proud to call home, and I feel blessed to be raising my children here.”
As we gather with family and friends this Thanksgiving, we do so with full hearts. Lea County’s strength comes from its people, the volunteers, educators, business owners, parents, nonprofit partners, and neighbors who care deeply about the well-being of our community. We are grateful for you today and every day.
From all of us at the JF Maddox Foundation, thank you for making Lea County a place we are proud to serve, proud to support, and proud to call home.
Happy Thanksgiving.
Mayra Lovas is the Vice President of Grants at the JF Maddox Foundation, a family foundation in Lea County, New Mexico. Alongside its partners, the foundation invests in education, social services, and community development for a greater quality of life for Lea County residents.
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