On Friday May 15, Fred and I had the privilege of speaking at A Kids Place luncheon. For those of you that are not familiar with A Kids Place, it is a unique, state of the art, 60-bed facility for abused, neglected, or abandoned children. The children range from newborns to kids ready to age out of the foster care system at 18. In the last 5 years they have provided a home to over 850 children and assisted over 370 families. A Kid’s Place has five 3,200 square foot homes on an expansive tree-lined campus that provides a safe, home-like environment in a neighborhood setting. They use a live-in house parent model which provides the children with consistent caregivers and family style living.
We spoke about why we each give our time and resources and ways for other people to do the same. It was my first time speaking at a podium since college and my very first time speaking with a spotlight shining on me. For those reasons I was nervous. I wanted so desperately to be perfect. I wanted to accomplish 2 things. I wanted to inspire everyone in the room so that A Kids Place could raise more money and I wanted everyone in the room to realize that giving, in any capacity, is inside each of them. It was very emotional for me to stand next to someone I admire, love and respect and hear him talk about why he does what he does. As he teared up, I shared in the clenched throat and watery eyes. I was filled with pride that I am married to such an inspirational man.
Fred and I were also very humbled to be presented with the Dottie Berger McKinnon Guardian Angel Award. This award recognizes individuals that share Dottie’s vision and have the same compassionate spirit, passion for making a difference, and commitment to doing what it takes to be a catalyst for change. It was such a great honor to represent A Kids Place and Dottie’s Mission and memory. It was extremely special for me to share this moment with my best friend and husband. As we made our way to the podium I fought back tears as the entire room applauded. As I held Fred’s hand tightly, part of my life flashed before my eyes and I knew that I would not be standing in that place at that time if it wasn't for his love for me. He is my Dottie. He is my inspiration for change. He is my guiding light and he is the person that helped become the person I am proud of today.
Dottie was very special to Fred and I both for several reasons. Every time I look at my little girl I am appreciative that she took the time to write a recommendation letter for Daisy’s adoption. She helped Fred discover the influence he had to change our community. From her he learned that we all have philanthropic value in one of three areas…TIME, RESOURCES an MONEY. I will ask each of you reading to do as Fred asked everyone to do Friday…PICK TWO!