Attitude + Approach = Success

When I was a kid, September meant the start of the new school year. I was always excited and nervous to see what the new year had in store. I was eager to meet my new teacher, learn the new subjects, and open that new box of crayons. I was nervous because there might be new kids in my class, or I might be going to a new building with older students. I had that one chance to make a first impression, and I had to go in with my chin up and a smile on my face; my attitude was key. Even if that first day was rough, I knew I couldn’t let that affect how the rest of the year went.

I still feel that excitement and those nerves every year on opening day. My teammates and I look up at the scoreboard, and our batting average is .000. That means the story of our year is yet to be told, and the season is full of possibilities. Just like when I was a kid, I have to remember that my attitude and approach are the keys to success. I may not have a good first day, but my second day could be entirely different. I may strike out in the first inning but may hit it out of the park in my next at-bat. I may have a rough April, but if I keep trying, I might end up surprising myself and a few others around me. The story of the season isn’t written on that first day.

And the story of each youth isn’t written yet either. With ALL RISE, we want to inspire young people to write their own incredible stories. Through our camps, our book club, or any of our other programs, we encourage young people to consider taking a chance and raising their hands to try something new. We know they just need a little encouragement to write a story that all of us will want to read one day.

As a valuable member of the ALL RISE family, I ask you to use your voice to support our programs. Follow us on social media or invite friends to join you at the upcoming gala in November. Help us tell the story of these young people who are growing and challenging themselves every day. Your encouragement and support can make all the difference in inspiring the next generation to reach for their dreams.