All of us are mesmerized by heroes, the likes of those portrayed in big-screen movies like “Sully” and “Hacksaw Ridge.”

There is another kind of hero — the everyday hero whose praises are often unsung. This kind of hero performs repetitive acts of kindness that accumulate into a mountain of good deeds. I have met such heroes while working for Senior Community Services.

They are volunteers and workers who perform essential tasks that enable seniors to stay in their own homes as long as possible. One such hero is Patrick. He has been mowing lawns and removing snow for our clients year-in and year-out for a dozen years without fail. Beyond his paid time, he goes above and beyond by visiting with seniors who are isolated and lonely. He stops at Burger King for meals he brings to one woman. He fixes front doors that won’t lock and saws and removes large branches. We do not pay him; he just does it graciously and gratuitously.

“I don’t do it for the money. I’ve gotten to know people and I want to be there for them. It’s surprising how rewarding it is,” he says.

As the saying goes, a neighbor nearby is better than a family member far away. To all the “Patricks” out there, we salute you as our best neighbors and constant heroes.

The reality is we can’t find enough people to help. Please consider joining Patrick and others to make a difference in your community. See more at www.seniorcommunity.org/volunteer/