Something to Smile About :-)

"No matter how tired or frustrated I may be, spending a couple of hours with my favorite teenagers, aka North TeenPower, always makes me smile." This is what I posted on Facebook last night after a TeenPower performance at the Dream Center. And I seriously meant it! Regardless of what stress this job may conjure up, I am always rewarded in the most astonishing ways--thanks to my involvement with TeenPower.

TeenPower is a club that encourages positive decision-making skills. As a group of students committed to abstaining from drugs and alcohol, we also work to develop leadership skill among our members. Last night we had the privilege of performing a series of skits that demonstrate the the power of positive choices to a group of underprivileged middle schoolers at the Dream Center. This was our fourth such performance this year, and it was entirely student-led.

In addition to the these performances, last week TeenPower hosted the 4th Annual Taste of North. For those of you who may not know, the purpose of the event is threefold: to raise money for the counselors’ Compassion Fund, to provide fundraising opportunities for student groups and clubs, and to increase school spirit. The first year was a huge success in meeting all three goals, and the event has continued to grow each year. Each of the participating groups rents a booth for $20. This fee is donated to the Compassion Fund. Beyond that, any money the groups make is their profit to keep. This year we were able to donate $440 to the counselor’s Compassion Fund, our largest donation yet! In addition, approximately $2000 was raised collectively by the participating student groups. The Taste of North has quickly become one of North’s most anticipated traditions.


I apologize if I sound like I'm bragging. It's just that I am so proud of these students for all that they have accomplished and all that they stand for. It was a beautiful moment last night witnessing our kids standing strong in their convictions and making a difference in the lives of others. Seeing these students give up their precious time and energy for the benefit of others is a constant reminder that our future is bright. And that, my friends, is definitely something to smile about! :-)