Giving Thanks: The Power in Promise

A decade ago I learned what true "thanksgiving" was all about when a friend introduced me to a non-profit organization dedicated to the poor. This agency works primarily in 17 countries in the Caribbean, and Latin America to assist the poorest of the poor. So that I could see their work firsthand I went on a mission trip. To say that I was not prepared for what I saw is an understatement.

• I saw people living in dangerous shanties without windows, doors, roofs or water.
• I saw elderly people living among raw human sewage in rickety homes on faulty foundations.
• I saw women and children exposed to the elements.

Despite the basic things they lacked, those that I met with were "thankful" for what they do have. They did not see themselves as "at risk." They saw themselves "at promise" and declared they would achieve success beyond anyone else's highest goals, hopes, dreams, desires and aspirations for them. While others saw them as victims. They saw themselves as VICTORS with a life full of promise.

June, the mother of two daughters, one son and the grandmother of two, lived in a dilapidated shack with no doors, or windows. She suffered from several illnesses but learned to re-cover furniture to make a living. In addition, she grew peppers, and raised chickens and sold their eggs in the market. All she needed was a sewing machine so that she could cover more furniture.

Sandra suffered from a severe case of Osteoporosis and lived in a group home. Even though she had only one healthy arm and was confined to a wheelchair, she was a gold medalist in the Special Olympics; had become a computer specialist and had a job waiting for her upon completion of a degree program.

After returning from my trip, I realized that the POWER (strength, compassion, hope, courage, ability, faith and commitment) demonstrated by those I met was fueled by their attitude of "thanksgiving." As we prepare to continue the important work of Communities In Schools, if we can learn one thing from June and Sandra, it is that they refused to be labeled by anyone else's low expectations or negative prognosis about their destiny. It is increasingly clear to me that -- in the days, weeks, months and years ahead -- we must work together in order to remove the "at-risk" label from our students by empowering them to obtain the promise of a bright future. This is why we have launched the "At Promise Campaign."

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As I just celebrated my sixth year as the president of this wonderful organization,please know that I am thankful for your support, partnership and investment of time, talent and treasure TODAY in the future leaders of tomorrow!