There are people out there helping kids. They are getting them outside. They are teaching them to be a part of a team. They're showing them the benefits of working together. There's just one problem.
They need shoes. Specifically cleats. And they need balls and whistles and all sorts of things to make this happen. Time are tough. Donations aren't as frequent as they used to be. Programs like the Boys & Girls Club are having to work with less than ever.
This month Champions For Kids partnered with Odwalla to help. They're encouraging us all to participate in a Game Day Challenge-to collect sports gear and donate to a community organization that serves children. Because children deserve to play. The deserve to get outside. They deserve a chance.
I had some help. I got a little money from coworkers who wanted to contribute. I was feeling a little down because I had not been able to collect as much as I wanted. Your money can only go so far when you're shopping for cleats and footballs. I ended up with four pairs of cleats, three footballs, four whistles. I didn't think I was doing enough.
When I packed everything up and had an overflowing bag I felt a little better. But I still wished I had been able to get more. The kids deserved more. But I did what I could and headed out to the Boys & Girls Club to drop off my donation.
When I arrived they were so excited to see me. One of the employees ran to get the coach so he could meet me. They were so excited. SO EXCITED! You would have thought I brought enough gear to outfit the entire team from their reaction.
That's when I knew that it didn't matter how much I donated. It mattered that I donated. That was the important part. That was what this was about.
And that's what Champions for Kids SIMPLE Service Projects are all about. Doing something SIMPLE to help kids. It doesn't matter if you donate $1 or $100. One ball or a dozen. It matters that you do it. Because I'm one of millions. And millions coming together can change things. We can change the world.
Are you participating in this month's SIMPLE Service Project? Become one of millions. Become a champion for kids! (And don't forget to report back!)
I am a member of the Collective Bias™ Social Fabric® Community. This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for Collective Bias™. #CBias #SocialFabric All photos and opinions are my own.
You always make a difference with your giving heart Amy. Don't ever doubt yourself! Of course they were excited.
ReplyDeleteGreat job Amy!! I also wished I could give more, there is such a big need out there and it pulls at my heartstrings to see it. I love what you donated!
ReplyDeleteWonderful! You are so right! It is not how much we can help but that we helped at all because just think...if we all gave a little, it would make a HUGE difference!
ReplyDeleteOh, you just warmed my heart with that - I was sad that you were sad that you didn't donate all you had hoped - because I know once you see the need you want to fix it!! But I am so glad you saw their excitement with what you did donate, because cleats are REALLY expensive, and that's how it's done - one kid at a time.
ReplyDeleteYou did your best. Good job!
ReplyDeleteNow this had me tearing up. You are so generous and giving all of the time, I hope you really do realize what an impact your donation is going to make on the lives of those children. Not just the ones who receive it, but the ones who witness a virtual stranger who cares enough to give back. You are modeling what it means to be in service to others, and you totally rock because of that.
ReplyDeleteAmy - you have a HUGE heart and it shows in everything you do! This is beautiful and I'm so happy you could make a difference! The Boys and Girls Club is lucky to have someone like YOU in their community.
ReplyDeleteThis is a great origination that is often over looked. Thanks for this article and suggestions. Its awesome thing you have done for your community
ReplyDeleteOh, you just warmed my heart with that - I was sad that you were sad that you didn't donate all you had hoped - because I know once you see the need you want to fix it!! But I am so glad you saw their excitement with what you did donate, because cleats are REALLY expensive, and that's how it's done - one kid at a time.
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