Clarksville Strong.

A movement that began officially during the pandemic but in reality, was in place long before.

This community takes care of its own. No town is as perfect as a holiday Hallmark movie (even though downtown Clarksville at Christmastime sure looks like it). But time and again this city shows its true heart, grit, and love.

For the past decade, I’ve seen firsthand how many Clarksvillians show up with trunks filled with toys for kids in need every year. Arriving with bags of coats ahead of winter for the annual coat drive (mentioning that they even washed them ahead of time).

The recent tornado that shocked this community revealed how quickly Clarksvillians spring into action to help.

Businesses immediately offering help in any way they can. Food, shelter, services, anything.

Residents staying home during a curfew to allow crews to have the room they need and officials to concentrate their resources to tackle the difficult work at hand.

Residents showing up by the BUSLOADS to clean up storm debris so fast that there was a need to pause the cleanup to give trash removal services a chance to catch up.

Residents taking in those displaced just before the holiday. A time that is all about family and appreciating what you have. A time that should be filled with joy.

Clarksvillians are opening their wallets, hearts, and homes.

Clarksville Mayor Joe Pitts said it perfectly when he mentioned that disasters can sometimes bring out the worst in some cities but in Clarksville, it brings out the best.

The tears that were shed over the devastation quickly turn to tears of gratitude of seeing the incredible people that live in our community.

During a time in life when sometimes you have to “look for the good”, Clarksville leaves no doubt how much GOOD is right here.

For resources or to simply see the evidence of the GOOD in this city, visit ClarksvilleStrong.com

~ Tiffany

The Beaver, 10a-2p