Early this month Washington D.C. Councilmember-at-large Anita Bonds released a list of the 2016 "Community Cornerstone" honorees. These are people whose civic engagement has made a difference in the life of the community. As Councilmember Bonds said in her announcement of this year's honorees:

Each is a cornerstone of our community. They make an extraordinary impact on the quality of life and general well-being of the residents of the District of Columbia through their efforts in: Arts & Entertainment, Business Development, Elected Representation and Politics, Health and Social Services,Social Justice, and Community Leadership.

One of those selected was John Griffith "Grif" Johnson, who has been a major figure in the QCDC organization as well. Anita Bonds described his work this way:

John Griffith Johnson, Community Services Advocate

Upon achieving 90% retirement from practicing law in 2010, "Grif" became active in a variety of community-oriented projects. From tutoring 3rd and 4th grade students, teaching the English language to adult learners, and helping senior high school students develop life skills, Grif believes that education can change lives. He also served as Chair of a non-profit and remains an active member of the board. He has also volunteered on other projects, including working on Saturday mornings to help refurbish various D.C. Public School facilities. He continues to deliver food weekly to persons who are confined to their homes and who are coping with serious illnesses.

More recently, Grif joined a group of D.C. residents who are committed to educating the public about the environmental and public-health harms caused by the use of combustion-engine leaf blowers.

Congratulations!