Difference Makers

Difference Makers articles share stories of the local heroes making a difference during the extraordinary times of the COVID-19 pandemic. This section is made possible by Eastwood Mall and named in honor of Mark Eckert, who made a difference in the Mahoning Valley.

This section is made possible by our Community Leaders Program.

Beloit 12-year-old starts Sophia’s Essential Supplies to help others

The initiative was started by 12-year-old Sophia Capron of Beloit, a sixth-grader at West Branch Middle School. She donates baskets of essential items to people who need assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

May 26, 2020 5:01 AM Read more >

YSU student makes mask straps for frontline workers

The mask straps are meant to alleviate ear pain that healthcare workers may experience as a result of wearing a face mask for long hours. The cost of the straps has been covered by more than $600 in donations.

May 19, 2020 4:11 AM Read more >

'God bless and be safe:' Austintown car group gives away 250 boxes of goods

The Chicken Coupe Cruisers gave away about $8,000 in groceries to those in need on Sunday at the Austintown eatery — "a wonderful success," said organizers.

May 12, 2020 4:45 AM Read more >

Lisbon hairstylist now creates fashionable face masks

Julie Smith initially made the masks for friends and family. Then she received an overwhelming amount of interest after posting a photo of her and Cody posing with their masks on the Dr. Amy Acton Fan Club page on Facebook. 

May 5, 2020 4:30 AM Read more >

Don't want to go to the store? GroceryGrab volunteers can help

"I wanted to figure out a way to harness a lot of people's feelings of obligation to their community in a safe way they can feel they are helping during this troubling time,” said founder Matthew Ellis.

Apr 28, 2020 4:52 AM Read more >

Meatball guru feeds Boardman ER during COVID-19 pandemic

It's the kind of recipe restaurateurs want for their own and for which women say they'll leave their husbands, Rich Casal joked.

Apr 21, 2020 5:43 AM Read more >

The Bread Fairy rises to surprise folks in the Valley

"It's very soothing to make bread, so I'm happy that I'm helping other people," said Courtney Poullas. "But they don't realize how much they're helping me."

Apr 13, 2020 4:11 AM Read more >