Elephants and Tea - September 2021 - 9

COMMUNITY OUTREACH Advocacy
to get their feedback and to have volunteers
attend in large numbers to show support.
At this time, I also introduced the
concept of having 100% of the funds
raised through this team called Gold
Together For Childhood Cancer be
dedicated to childhood cancer research
and support programs.
While I was working to help other
kids, what I didn't realize at the time
is that many of my friends before cancer
moved on and volunteering provided me with
new, like-minded friends. Additionally, I did
not spend much time focusing on what was
taken because of cancer, but because I was
volunteering, I focused on the blessings that
were given to me such as new friends and the
positive results from my efforts.
I've noticed that some cancer patients I
have met don't always feel confident sharing
what they have gone through and being a part
of the Gold Together team provided them a
way to stay connected and grow their voice
for the cause. What has been great about
kids participating at any age is they provide
hope for the newly diagnosed. At Relay they
have opportunities to speak, celebrate, create
awareness, and for them to know that their
voice is being heard.
After a couple years of testing the concept
and finding success I felt like the time was
right to request a meeting with Gary Reedy,
the CEO of the American Cancer Society.
I
wanted to share my thoughts on how we could
collectively " Do the greatest amount of good,
in the shortest amount of time, for the greatest
amount of kids. " I was nervous for the meeting
because I knew that I was speaking on behalf
of so many people. Mr. Reedy agreed that we
should partner, and my concept became a naI
did not spend much time focusing on what
was taken because of cancer, but because I
was volunteering, I focused on the blessings
that were given to me such as new friends
and the positive results from my efforts.
tional program officially with the American
Cancer Society in 2019.
One reason why it was accepted is that
volunteers are everything to non-profits. A
good idea is just that without the volunteers
to help execute it. So, as a volunteer, no matter
what your age you can create the change you
want to see. I am constantly aware that it was
hundreds of people who volunteered with me
to make my vision a reality. It is the reason
why I named the initiative " Gold Together. "
There are just under 2,000 Relay for Life
events nationwide and now when someone
steps forward to be a Gold Together for
childhood cancer team captain there will
be support for families in their community!
All it takes is one person to volunteer. What
is most rewarding to me is knowing that the
baton has been passed to other kids and young
adults and they are empowered to take it to
the next level. A spotlight is shining on them
to share their unique story and for them to be
hope in their communities.
I am thankful and humbled for the ability
to speak, share my story, and encourage others
to share that their test is their testimony.
This past year I had dozens of volunteers who
reached out saying since they didn't have to
commute to work, they wanted to give an hour
of their time that usually was spent commuting.
Many of them created flyers and graphics
that we used in a new campaign called Gold
Together Champions in September. Others
are playing video games in tournaments and
spotlighting Gold Together as their charity.
There are even retired teachers and high
school students hand making fabric ribbons
while they watch movies or binge watch TV.
I am working on more ways that people can
get involved because it is easy to focus on life's
problems and volunteering changes the focus
from you, to others.
I will be turning 20 in September and
am a sophomore at the University of South
Florida majoring in business. I have no idea
where I will work after college, but I know
that what will be important to me is working
for an organization that supports their
community and empowers their employees
to get involved. I know firsthand that helping
others, helps you as well. It is the true definition
of win-win. One last item that is very
important to share with you is that we are
never alone. We may feel alone, but we always
have faith. You may leave it temporarily, but
it will never leave you.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE GOLD TOGETHER MOVEMENT: CANCER.ORG/GOLDTOGETHER
Gold Together is the American Cancer Society's initiative dedicated to increasing awareness of childhood cancer, supporting families facing a
diagnosis, and raising funds to end childhood cancer. 100% of the funds raised directly support childhood cancer research, education, advocacy
and services, as well as promote cancer prevention efforts targeting children to help them reduce their risk for cancer later in life.
STAY
SOCIAL
* Facebook: facebook.com/GoldTogetherForChildhoodCancerAwareness/
* Twitter: twitter.com/GOLD_TOGETHER
* Instagram: Instagram.com/goldtogether
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SEPTEMBER 2021
9

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Elephants and Tea - September 2021

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