There's scum of the earth, and in complete juxtaposition there's the general populace of Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows - who continue to impress.

Amid the horror, shock, and fear that surrounded the random abduction and brutal assault of a Maple Ridge teen on Jan. 19 - and all that has since come to light about the suspected assailant and his life of crime - it's exciting to trumpet some good news.

In fact, it's incredibly uplifting to hear that this community - once again - has chosen to step up and help.

Determined to make something good come out of something so evil, her family, friends, and even complete strangers are uniting for the sake of a 17-year-old Westview student.

First, the public overwhelmed police with calls when asked for tips about the kidnapping and beating.

Now, some folks are organizing a special tribute event for her at Fox's Reach - likely this weekend - while other friends and family are in the thick of organizing a fundraiser - date to be announced. Money collected will help this young lady replace her car, which was used and then ruined during the abduction and assault.

All these people care and want to help the young woman overcome this trauma. While she'll probably never eradicate all the memories of this heinous attack - and there's probably not much any of us can do to help heal the emotional scares - it has to help her knowing so many people want to help.

Of course, such an outpouring of support should come as no surprise. When someone is in need, this community invariable rallies to their aid.

In this case, the community is following this girl's lead. In the true spirit of kindness that she demonstrated prior to her attack - by offering to help an alleged distressed man get his car going - those wanting to be Good Samaritan are finding some creative ways to offer aid. Kudos.

- R.H.