As we move into year four of PFO, we continue to make changes to better the organization, the buddy program, the Committee Experience, the Arts Experiences and ultimately the celebratory Arts Festival Weekend. The strength we currently have in our Board, Advisors and Teen Leadership group is unparalleled in our history. We have put all the tools in place to make this the best year of PFO ever!
At the fall retreat when we talked about forming new relationships, raising funds, following through on tasks and having the experience of a lifetime, I challenged the teens to keep three words in mind, “MAKE IT PERSONAL”. At a time when the internet becomes more and more the fall back communication device, we begin to lose the personal interaction that is so valuable. Taking the time to stop and really listen as someone tells you how they are, taking a second to look them in the eye and say hello, or just offer a kind smile, can change someone’s entire day. I’ve often said, “Never underestimate the power of a kind word”.
So for this year here’s the challenge…to live Moment by Moment…to take the time to care for those around you…to really enjoy every experience…to not spend all year rushing around so much that we forget to live our lives. Every person deserves love, support, kindness and time – including ourselves.
Written by Jen Band, Executive Director
