25 Mar 2021

This Denver boy brought hope and healing after the Boulder shootings

The morning after the shooting, 11-year-old JJ Whitmer wanted to do something to honor those whose lives were lost. He proposed handing out flowers to employees at King Soopers stores in Brighton and Commerce City. He purchased dozens of carnations in a variety of bright colors and roses and paid for them with money he earned from dog-walking. When JJ told the florists his plan to give a flower to every store employee, he was offered a generous discount at both stores.

As he handed out over 70 flowers, he shared the same message to employees: “We just wanted to let you know you’re appreciated. Thank you for being here today. It must be hard.”

Gratitude was the response.

“It brought joy to a sad day,” his mom, Jody Witmer, said.

Even during the saddest of times, let’s remember to take care of each other.

Photos: Jody Witmer