Gettysburg Mayor Honors Local Heroes with Kindness Awards

During the recent Kindness Week, observed from November 7-14, 2026, Gettysburg Mayor Alison Lintal presented Kindness Commendation Awards to three residents for their contributions to the community. The honors went to Olivia McClure, a teenager who surprised a neighbor with homemade treats; Michael Casamassina, who clears snow to ensure neighbors can reach their cars during emergencies; and Dr. Smitha Nair, who uses ice cream gatherings to build local connections. Lintal spoke of her admiration for the nominees and the quiet, positive influence their actions have on the town.

The idea for Kindness Week grew out of a conversation between Lintal and Kathy Gaskin of Healthy Adams County. The organization partnered with Collaborating for Youth to host a film screening focused on the theme of kindness. In this inaugural year, Lintal received nearly 20 nominations for the awards. She plans to share more of these stories in the coming weeks, viewing the initiative as a way to highlight the often-unseen strength of the community. Her goal is to establish the week as an annual event.

Olivia McClure, the oldest of four siblings, was recognized for a thoughtful gesture she made back in September. She baked a batch of brownies and made her way through the woods and across railroad tracks to deliver them as a surprise to a neighbor. Mayor Lintal pointed to McClure’s personal initiative as a meaningful example of how young people can foster intergenerational bonds within their neighborhoods.

Michael Casamassina has become a steady, reliable presence in his neighborhood. He is known for helping those who have fallen and for his commitment to clearing snow so that residents can get to their vehicles during medical emergencies. Neighbors described him as a dependable and supportive figure, noting how much his presence contributes to the safety and well-being of those living nearby.

Dr. Smitha Nair launched the SOUL Project after seeing how many of her patients struggled with loneliness. The project hosts free social gatherings at Mr. G's ice cream shop, giving people a chance to meet and form new friendships. Since it began, these meet-ups have drawn more than 30 participants, many of whom return every month. The initiative addresses social isolation while creating a stronger sense of belonging among those who attend.

Borough Council President Matthew Moon spoke about the value of these local ties, describing Gettysburg as a community defined by people who look out for one another. He noted that the strength of the town lies in the simple, neighborly relationships that flourish when residents take an interest in the lives of those around them.

Mayor Lintal intends to keep building on this momentum, encouraging residents to consider how they might positively affect those around them. She noted that kindness does not require grand gestures, as even small efforts can tighten the fabric of a community. By highlighting the ways people already support each other, Lintal hopes to foster a more welcoming environment where cooperation and compassion are celebrated as part of the local culture.