There is something wildly significant about having people in our lives who believe in us. These people inspire us to chase our dreams and run after the seemingly impossible.
I distinctly remember the first time someone said to me 'you're smart, you'll know what to do'. There was an unforgettable power in those words. It gave me strength and courage. A striking reminder of the power I had inside that was forgotten.
I was recently reminded of this power at a fundraiser for my Great Big Kid campaign. I lost count of the number of people who believed in and supported me, giving of their time and money, because I represented the Boys & Girls Club.
It's no surprise. The Club has an unbelievable culture of believing in the kids it serves. The staff believe in the kids. The kids believe in each other. It's nothing short of impressive. Especially when considering their ages. Specifically the tweens and teens...they support each other and root for one another...not a common sight these days.
I see it every time I see Alexa. Her friends in the Club are eager to help her and want to see her win. The staff is the same. Her mom and family too. And it shows.
To watch an 11 year old girl be surrounded by people who believe in her is amazing and it's life altering. For both of us.
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
The Campaign
One of the challenges I've come across is explaining what a Great Big Kid campaign is all about. There's a lot to it.
First, there's a mentoring component. There are 6 Youth of the Year candidates from Boys & Girls Club who are each matched up with one of six community leaders to mentor them through a judging and competition process to be named the local Youth of the Year.
Second, the six community leaders...called Great Big Kids, compete against one another to raise money for the club during the campaign. The winner is crowned on April 27th at the annual dinner celebration as the 'Greatest Big Kid'.
Along the way, each Great Big Kid decides upon distinct components to set their campaigns apart from the others: choosing a team color (ours is purple), a theme song, creating a video, developing entertainment/skit for the night of the dinner, and drives friends, family, and peer professionals to a voting site to raise their money. Each vote is $40. The goal is for each Great Big Kid to raise a minimum of $10,000.
Being asked to be a Great Big Kid is an honor and big responsibility. If you've never heard about a Great Big Kid campaign I hope this explanation enlightens you to the hard work and dedication involved! And I hope it inspires you to stay connected to see how my campaign develops and evolves throughout the process...it's bound to be GREAT!
First, there's a mentoring component. There are 6 Youth of the Year candidates from Boys & Girls Club who are each matched up with one of six community leaders to mentor them through a judging and competition process to be named the local Youth of the Year.
Second, the six community leaders...called Great Big Kids, compete against one another to raise money for the club during the campaign. The winner is crowned on April 27th at the annual dinner celebration as the 'Greatest Big Kid'.
Along the way, each Great Big Kid decides upon distinct components to set their campaigns apart from the others: choosing a team color (ours is purple), a theme song, creating a video, developing entertainment/skit for the night of the dinner, and drives friends, family, and peer professionals to a voting site to raise their money. Each vote is $40. The goal is for each Great Big Kid to raise a minimum of $10,000.
Being asked to be a Great Big Kid is an honor and big responsibility. If you've never heard about a Great Big Kid campaign I hope this explanation enlightens you to the hard work and dedication involved! And I hope it inspires you to stay connected to see how my campaign develops and evolves throughout the process...it's bound to be GREAT!
Friday, February 1, 2013
Alexa Is Spectacular!
She gave me a tour of the Club, we practiced her speech, and she showed me her school guard duties. What a natural leader!
We also talked about some ideas for our campaign. She loves the idea of incorporating bling and feathers. We're perfect for each other!!
Looking forward to seeing her again soon, working on her speech more, and continuing our journey!
PS. Dont' forget to register for our fundraiser on Thursday, February 21st, 5-7pm at 101 N. Michigan, 5th Floor, Downtown South Bend. Minimum donation is $100/person or $150/couple. Click here to attend!
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