So, if you haven't read my previous posts, then you might not know that I am heavily involved in my church. I have spent the past couple of years being the Youth Service Fund Chair over the Southeast District, and this past school year was when I finally got to plan this stuff out myself. And let me tell you - I had big goals.
Nothing in the world means quite as much to me as The Youth Service Fund does. Everything about it makes me happy. The events I work are exciting, the people I meet are great, the creativity and drive you have to have are empowering; all of it is great. The best part is how the money is used. We help change the world, piece by piece. We give youth around the world opportunities to get up and do something no matter where they are from.
It is an organization that raises money to help multiple different causes, and that is the most beautiful thing, in my eyes. I can't imagine being more in love with any other charity or organization.
But beyond that, the task force is just perfect. I am overjoyed to have gotten the opportunity to work with these kids. Andrew, firstly, is a really awesome person even though we have our disagreements. He is passionate about the Youth Service Fund, and that makes him an O.K. guy in my eyes!
At first, I was a bit worried that we got a bunch of younger kids on our task force; I didn't know most of them and wasn't sure if they would work. But they really surprised me!
And when it came down to it, these kids helped YSF break all barriers and raise a staggering $2,829 this past weekend. They all worked very hard and I credit them immensely for all the records we surpassed. The people who run the state YSF are just ecstatic.
And poor Dillon who was duct-taped to a tree for our cause was such a great sport, YSF is already considering a good way to honor him for his selfless sacrifice. Really, there is no one group of people to thank for the awesome amount of money we raised. Churches from all over the Southeast District donated for a chance to win our prize package. Sheridan First brought $700 ALONE, which made me almost fall out of my seat! Monticello, Sulphur Springs, Gillette, White Hall, Crossett, and Marvell all donated as well.
So in the end, Sheridan got both the prize package and the beautiful glass trophy that my mom made for them. And I was so happy I could barely express my gratitude when I stood up and thanked all the kids and adults.
But the most valuable thing, in my opinion, are the friendships I have watched grow out of this and the leadership qualities I have been able to help grow. Ike is awesome, and I can't wait to see what he does with the Youth Service Fund under his control. I hope he is able to carve out his own path and do what he loves rather than let certain people tell him where he needs to be and what he needs to do. BUT, that's beside the point. Luke is a little ball of energy and I love that he is so dedicated to the cause. EVERYONE on my task force is just so outgoing and I wish I had the money to send them all somewhere nice for vacation; especially Odessa and Pooh.
Hopefully, this upcoming year with Ike as my co-chair is even more successful and great for everyone. :)
Much Love and Many Thanks,
Erica Kriner
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