As a family, most of us Gernandt’s have enjoyed helping, lending a hand, supporting a friend, being present when someone is alone and so much more.

Connection is what brings true meaning to life and there is nothing more significant at times than helping someone in need, whether it’s big or small: Sharing a smile, pointing someone in the right direction, or rolling up your sleeves in times of crisis. In Julian and the surrounding communities, we have seen needs of varying degrees.

It began when Gary was working at the high school and we were growing more familiar with our community. It folded in nicely with our philosophies about life and being here for a reason. And gradually, we began to learn who our neighbors, friends, and coworkers are- and things evolve organically.

It typically begins so innocently: someone asks and we do what we can. But sometimes life is a little more complicated, especially since the pandemic. And while many were quarantining and binging on Netflix, Deb was finding what seemed like endless individuals who had needs that extended beyond the counseling office. Gary was ready to get to work and was inspired to do some fundraising. While Carly arrived with her exceptional networking skills and creativity. We then asked some close friends who loved Conor to help us create our board of directors. Together we are joining with more friends and community members to identify needs and find ways to address those needs by reaching out. We are starting small and willing to see how we can serve, grow and evolve over time.

We see this as a launching point and hoping that with time we will have a network of providers, supporters, and friends ready to open their hearts, learn what they can about service and what it takes to give just enough to make a difference and to possibly change the lives of those receiving and those doing the giving. Very much in the same way that Conor changed our lives.

Deb, Gary, & Carly Gernandt