I first heard about Playing For Others a few years back when I met Addy Allred at the Green River Preserve. She was wearing her PFO shirt at breakfast, and I thought “Hey she seems like a cool kid, we should be friends.” We started talking about theatre, camp, and the organization. But it wasn’t until early last year that I really took an interest in becoming a part of PFO. I have to thank Erika Rasile for this. She and I became friends when she recruited me for her Director’s Showcase: Eurydice at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte this past year. The majority of the directors and their casts were a part of Playing For Others as well. After the show ended, Erika invited me to the Arts Festival Weekend to see Honk! and the benefit concert. I met most of the teens that night, and learned an incredible amount about PFO. Needless to say, I fell in love with the organization and its mission and I couldn’t wait to apply for the 2009-2010 year.
My love and enthusiasm sky-rocketed the minute I arrived at the retreat, and still continues to grow. I was almost shocked by how inclusive everyone was, and was pleasantly surprised at how many friends and bonds I formed even on the first night.
The only thing that I love more than the close-knit family aspect of Playing For Others is the unique relationship fostered by the buddy program. I was really nervous the first time I met my buddy, Jessica, but it turned out to be one of the best experiences thus far. The most eye-opening part was seeing how simple things like walking presented a challenge for her. But her determination, persistence, and can-do attitude never cease to amaze me. I feel incredibly blessed to know her and be able to see how she grows and advances towards her goals. With my partner, Briann Messick, and Jessica, I feel as if we have a sisterly bond. I care an incredible amount about her and she makes me want to improve myself in every way possible.
Another part of Playing For Others that I love is the committee work and learning the business side of working with a non-profit organization. I have learned so much in such a short amount of time. I am on the Costume Committee which will be creating and designing the costumes for the musical. I have such a wonderful group of people to work with on my committee, especially our fearless leader, Hope Johnston. I can’t wait to get to work on the costumes during the January and February committee meetings.
Despite this being my first year as a PFO teen, the organization has already become an essential part of my life, and I honestly have no idea how I would survive without such fabulous people all working together to create such an amazing change. I am so incredibly thankful to be a part of such a unique organization. The most important thing I’ve learned and taken to heart is that it isn’t about the money we raise, or the committees we are on. It isn’t about the corporate sponsors we get, the arts experience we are in, or committee war points. It is about having an impact on our buddies and their families by creating life long friendships and loving and accepting them for exactly who they are. In the end that is what really matters.
