Spirit of America

Spirit of America is the name of a special news segment that will air on World News with Charles Gibson. Airing every Friday in a two to three minute segment, it will feature stories of triumph, hope and generosity displayed by everyday Americans in the current economic crisis.

World News with Charles Gibson producer Jonathan Banner on the importance of the segment:

• "Even with the economic crisis and the problems that affect so many people, we're trying to show that people can make a difference, both big and small."

In one particular segment of Spirit of America, which aired on November 20, 2008, the small town of Possum Trot in Texas was featured. ABC: Possum Trot Families Open Hearts and Homes (November 19, 2008) The town's pastor W.C. Martin and his wife Donna began adopting children which soon grew to four who came from abusive homes. ABC: Possum Trot Families Open Hearts and Homes (November 19, 2008) Soon Martin's congregation were interested in his mission and began to adopt children themselves. To date, the congregation and town at large has permanently adopted over 72 children.ABC: Possum Trot Families Open Hearts and Homes (November 19, 2008)