Among the journalism awards handed out each year, the biggest are the Pulitzer Prizes. And even among the Pulitzers, one outshines the others: the Pulitzer Prize for Public Service.
This recognition is sometimes given when reporters uncover governmental scandals – graft, incompetence or abuse of power.
It is sometimes given when they document grave social wrongs – failed systems, physical suffering or unequal treatment.
And it is sometimes given when news organizations go the extra distance to help their communities in times of crises – natural calamities, man-made disasters or heart-rending violence.
Then there are the things that will never make the Pulitzer nomination list. These include the seasonal efforts many newspapers launch, encouraging readers to support worthwhile charities.
On Sunday, the Herald published its annual “Ways to Give” directory, which spread across five pages. If you didn’t take the time to read through the list on Sunday, I encourage you to spend a few minutes looking it over.
The list itself will make you feel bad – and good – about the world. Bad that so many needs exist. Good that so many of our neighbors are willing to make Snohomish County a more compassionate place.
We run “Ways to Give” as a public service – but this isn’t journalism that has to do with winning prizes.
After all, it is the community that is the winner. And it is the volunteers and the non-profit workers who deserve the prize.
Check it out, and do what you can to help them.
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.