Each of Us Has the Power to Change a Kid's Life Forever
Carrie Schwab-Pomerantz
Corporate Director | Transformational Business Executive | Financial Literacy Advocate
A few weeks ago, I got a lovely surprise in my email box. It was a message from Tamara Johnson, the 2010-2011 National Money Matters Ambassador for Boys & Girls Clubs of America and Charles Schwab Foundation. I hadn’t heard from her in a few years, but just seeing her name took me back to the times we’d spent together as part of the Money Matters program—she had visited me in San Francisco, we rang the bell at the New York Stock Exchange, and greatest of all, I was there when she received her well-earned scholarship toward her college education. Of course, knowing Tamara (in photo below), her news was exciting: “I graduated last year with my Bachelor of Arts degree in Corporate Communication from Marquette University and I recently just finished my first year of law school at Marquette as well,” Tamara wrote. “I love law school so far and I really believe I wouldn't be where I am if it weren't for the support of yourself, the Charles Schwab Foundation, and Boys & Girls Clubs of America.”
Wow. This is why I love what I do. Here’s proof that we can make a difference in people’s lives. Tamara’s hard work and commitment are such an inspiration.
Because of the work of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, other stories like Tamara’s echo through the U.S. An estimated 1 in every 16 Americans attended a Boys & Girls Club in their lifetime—that’s millions of people!
Currently, there are over 11 million kids each day who have no place to go when they leave school. And this is where we all can help: In September, for every new member who joins the Boys & Girls Clubs Alumni & Friends Club, BGCA will donate a Club membership to a kid in need. You don’t have to be an alumn of the Club to participate; anyone can be a friend. Each of us has the power to change the life of a kid forever.
At the end of Tamara’s email, she signed off with a phrase that will always stay with me: “Again, thank you for everything Ms. Schwab, especially for your belief in me.” If you believe in the potential our youth, including students like Tamara, and you want to take action, join me today as a member of the Alumni & Friends Club at BGCalum.org.
As I awake with the gift of another day I pray this most Ardent prayer for continue clearly of purpose self family etc.
9 年S.O.S friends I need you to help us to help our young people........It doesn't cost you anything just need you to inbox your home depot receipts or just the the three set of numbers below the address and the amount please call if you need any further communication or email them to [email protected] Less get STARTED We will be able to train one person per hour with your receipts or just use 312-982-5252 at the register. you have nothing to loose. no obligation just you receipt or use the 312-982-5252 help us to help our little one to learn a trade............
Product Director/Experience Strategist - Digital & IRL || Friendly Silo-Uniter for the good of CX/EX/Brand Experience
9 年Very inspiring story, thanks for sharing and way to go Tamara!
Investor/Business Mentor/Ownership Team at Redemption Press Publisher/Facilitator of Philanthropy
9 年Great story and outcome. Thanks Carrie both for sharing and for what you and the Charles Schwab Foundation to do to make a difference in the lives to the young people that BGCA Clubs serve!
VP, Microsoft Cloud Services
9 年Love this story. Boys & Girls Clubs of America was a client for B2B several years ago when we built their YouthNet -- incredibly gratifying project. And for the record Carrie... I think you are a "beast" for worth projects. Keep up the good work.
Missionary (Child Advocate)
9 年Inspiring. Indeed, there is no joy greater than helping children attain their best potential. Children are the hope of these United States, the hope of a better world. Quote: It s easier to build strong children than to repair broken men. www.jcruzfoundation.org