Giving millions of dollars — to education, scholarships, medical research and homeless programs — changes lives and communities. We all benefit when so many in our community make the choice to share their fortunes.

As important as such major contributions are, they aren’t the only ones that matter, as this issue of Giving shows. Here you’ll find stories about people who give their time and talents to mentor young people and raise funds for the arts. Professionals who have foregone high-paying careers to work with community organizations. Companies that donate both funds and employee hours to spruce up schools and shelters — despite their own economic challenges.

One woman profiled in today’s section talks about a high school student aiming for entry to a prestigious northern school. When he couldn’t afford a plane ticket to the interview, she picked up the tab. The young man ended up not only getting in, he was offered a full scholarship. His future was forever changed.

It’s not always possible to see such immediate or dramatic results from our contributions. But we all want to live in a stronger, healthier, more vibrant community. Whether you give to individuals or through organizations, in time or money, with contributions massive or modest, you can make a positive impact.

To all of you who do, thank you.

David Landsberg

Publisher, Miami Herald Media Company