Certainly living up to the names, the Profile 2013 Citizens of the Year and Unsung Heroes are a group of outstanding individuals who understand that giving back to the community is a vital part of being a good citizen.

Nine individuals and one group were featured in last week’s printed edition and the nomination letters have been shared online as well. It is important to recognize people like these each year because it helps drown out the negativity and reaffirm the belief that people are inherently good.

It was a diverse group spanning areas of impact and geography of the county.

Linda Dalton and Juanita Southers took the initiative to honor hundreds of fallen soldiers from Lawrence County, making Woodland Cemetery a sight to behold.

Sue Lunsford has been involved in a myriad of community organizations in her years of service, most notably the parade and the Boy Scouts.

Kelli Kearns is a mother who takes care of her three biological children as well as three others who didn’t have a home and have faced significant challenges.

Lenville Mays has been a staunch and vocal supporter of Fairland school district athletic projects for years, despite the fact that had his voice box removed years ago.

Dr. Lewis Motycka is a retired veterinarian remembered for his house calls and compassion towards animals.

The Ironton firefighters were honored for all that they do including the effort at a January house fire that saved damages to neighboring homes.

When John Dickess started giving away bikes three years ago, he had no idea how it would grow. This past Christmas he and his partners nearly filled the building across the street from his Ironton automotive repair shop and helped make the holidays a little brighter for hundreds of children.

Kenny Aldridge is the definition of a friendly neighbor who is always willing to help out in time of need.

Peggy Wells is well-known around Sherman Thompson Towers in Ironton and can always be counted on to step up the seniors who live there.

All of these Unsung Heroes were certainly deserving. The entire community should feel blessed that we have them and thankful that someone helped share their stories.

Maybe each of us can learn a little about ourselves or see how we can make a difference.