People have asked me about the ‘Make it Count’ slogan that is being used for the race as I’ve included it in some of my email communication. Quite honestly I love the idea of asking yourself if what you are doing is counting. It’s a great little slogan to live by and challenge yourself as you look at whatever it is you are doing and making it count for something. Whether you are training for a race, exercising because you want to or need to, working at a craft or hobby, spending time with your children and family or volunteering for a worthy cause, I urge you to Make it Count. There are so many wonderful stories from our KIDS HOPE programs across the country it isn’t easy to pick just one. But for the sake of space and wordiness, here we go. From a mentor who often wondered if the time he was spending “counted”. You can decide for yourself.
The teacher had been reluctant to even refer Zack to a KIDS HOPE USA mentor. As with so many children, it was a “no way-only way” situation. No way, because this problem child might overwhelm a mentor; but the only way this kid would make it was if a caring adult, especially a man, came into his life. The KHUSA director matched Zack with Mr. Green.
Mr. Green expected the challenge, and he was not disappointed. More often than not, one step forward was matched by two steps back as this troubled young boy tested his authority and dared him to quit the relationship. It was tough, and as the year ended, Mr. Green wondered if he had made any difference at all in the life of this child.
That is when Zack handed the following note to his teacher and asked her to share it with Mr. Green.
Dear Mr. Green,
I love you for a dad. We did fun things, but I couldn’t do one little thing wrong. You could have walked out the door. But you didn’t. Thank you for all you did. I will be at Lincoln for nine more days. [Then] I will be in middle school. I hope you can visit an old pal.
Your Pal,
Zack
It’s your turn.
Make it Count!
