This past year, we met a number of people who are going the extra mile to help others here and in other countries. 

Just in case you missed them, here are their inspiring stories:

Retired OCC Professor, 75, Jogs 7.5 Miles to Benefit Rwandan Charity

Long-time Farmington Hills resident Don Nichols ran 7.5 miles in Tennessee to help stock the small African country's first public library. He connected with Rwanda through a young refugee who came to Oakland Community College to prepare for a career in nursing. 

Farmington Woman's Lawsuit Paves the Way for Handicapped Access at State Building

Jill Babcock says the City of Farmington immediately made accommodations for her wheelchair when she was appointed to the planning commission. She can't say the same thing about her employer. This would be a problem in any case, but Babcock's employer is the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, and the building is leased by the State of Michigan. 

Award Recognizes Farmington Man's Devotion to Working With Seniors

Since Sept. 16, 1986, Farmington resident Dr. Peter Lichtenberg has devoted his career to working with his elders. Even as he accepted an award this year for his dedication, Lichtenberg is working on a project designed to keep seniors from being scammed. 

Farmington Hills Couple's School in Africa Grows

John Paul Secondary School, built in Uganda by Paul and Nancy Berrigan, opened in 2007 with 14 students and now serves more than 150. The Berrigans are reaching out for help with projects needed to expand the school. 

Farmington Women Raise Funds to Share Love of Reading, Help Teen Girls

Farmington Lit Ladies Book Club aims to change the lives of hundreds of young women at Vista Maria, a residential treatment program in Dearborn, by putting more books into their hands. 

Do you know someone we should profile in 2013? Send your suggestions to editor Joni Hubred-Golden, joni.hubred-golden@patch.com.