This is why our youth need to see what’s possible
In honor of my mom, Geneva Maria Lawal, I humbly accepted the Stark County NAACP inaugural Image Award earlier this month. It is absolutely an honor to be among some of the Firsts in my community: Attorney Adrian Allison - first black Superintendent of Canton City Schools, The Honorable Chris Smith - first woman Majority Leader for Canton City Council, and newly elected, Kyle L. Stone - the first Black Stark County Prosecuting Attorney.
Representation matters! Our youth need to see what is possible. We are FIRSTS! You may be a first. But, let us all work together to make sure we are not the last!
Be a coach. Be a mentor. Be a sponsor. Be an advocate.
Help our youth to excel! I think you'll find it completely worthwhile to see someone's outlook change right before your very eyes. And, I think YOU WILL also be changed by the help you offer to someone else.
I will forever be touched by the people who were deliberate to spend time with me. And as an advocate, I'm transformed by the people that I can help.
Scientists refer to this as a "helper's high", because giving feels good - endorphins are released when we know that we've encouraged someone else's situation.
So consider making a difference in your community, because - believe me - you have a wonderful gift to share. Don't ever underestimate what your gift can do for others. Make a move today to help a young person who needs it.