Another New Year to celebrate. We are optimistic that 2024 will be a year of renewal and increase and look forward to working with non-profit organizations to make a difference in communities throughout the nation.
Want to share with you a “feel good” story about one of our customers that is making a difference and giving back. The 92nd NY, in New York (https://www.92ny.org/) has a Special Olympics Swim Team. The journey of the 92NY Special Olympics Swim Team is a testament to the unwavering spirit of its members and the incredible community that supports them. What started as a modest initiative has now become a recruitment center for athletes of all ages, from 7-year-old beginners to adults, fostering an environment where each participant can thrive and succeed. I’m in touch with all kinds of fitness facilities and organizations throughout North America where there is a growing movement during these challenging times to make a difference and giving back. This is a grass root / organic movement where its not about “me” but “we”. I am truly touched by the generosity of people and makes me want to spread the word of what ordinary people are doing.
This leads us to share with you content about not only the 92NY but also Marisa and Chris of “The Empower Group” (https://stevensonempowers.com/). I’ve worked with Marisa and Chris on a number of projects and their desire to help people and organizations knows no bounds. We are honored they will be contributing to the Soapbox Newsletter their expertise on a regular basis to help our readers to develop “Strategic Partnerships” that get results. This is their way of giving back.
Should you have something you want to share with our readership, please email us at drt@drtevents.org and lets make something happen.
“The need is great and so are the opportunities to make a difference.” Paul Newman
Shannel and John
The Special Olympics Swim Team at The 92nd Street Y, New York (92NY), a world-class cultural and community center located in New York City, began with just three passionate athletes, but in a short span, it has transformed into a powerhouse of nearly 20 individuals, creating waves of impact across the entire city. 92NY is proud to make this program accessible for all individuals who want to participate by covering the full cost of entry fees, coaching, pool time, travel, and branded gear for each athlete.
The journey of the 92NY Special Olympics Swim Team is a testament to the unwavering spirit of its members and the incredible community that supports them. What started as a modest initiative has now become a recruitment center for athletes of all ages, from 7-year-old beginners to adults, fostering an environment where each participant can thrive and succeed.
One of the team’s remarkable achievements is its widespread participation in competitions all across the state. The athletes of 92NY have not only embraced the challenges of competition but have also demonstrated exceptional skill and sportsmanship. Their presence in these events is more than just about winning; it’s a celebration of diversity, determination, and sportsmanship.
The impact of the 92NY Special Olympics Swim Team extends far beyond the pool deck.
Families, friends, and the broader community have rallied behind these remarkable athletes, witnessing the transformative power of inclusion and shared passion. The team’s success story has become a source of inspiration for all who believe in the boundless potential of every individual.
Annie O’Malley, seen below, the heartbeat of the 92NY Special Olympics Swim Team, has been a radiant presence since the team began in 2019. From the early days when the team consisted of just three athletes, Annie has been a constant force, attending every workout and meet with an infectious joy that uplifts the entire team. Her unwavering commitment has not only defined the team’s culture but has also played a pivotal role in its success. Annie’s journey is one of personal triumphs, as she started with limited proficiency in some of the competitive strokes. However, her determination and hard work shone brightly in the last meet of 2023 when she fearlessly dove into the pool for the 100IM—a race that challenges athletes with all four competitive strokes. Annie’s triumphant swim not only showcased her personal growth but also symbolized the inclusive and empowering spirit of the 92NY Special Olympics Swim Team.
The 92NY Special Olympics Swim Team stands as a shining example of the positive impact sports can have on individuals and communities. As the team continues to grow and make waves, our need for resources also grows – from ensuring that Annie and her fellow teammates have enough coaching to reach their swim aspirations, to covering the cost of pool time, to providing transport to the increasing number of meets, and more – and we must rely on support from friends like you to ensure the vitality of this team. I hope that you will consider playing a crucial role in the team’s success by making a gift to 92NY today. Your gift will help sustain the 92NY Special Olympics Swim Team, ensuring that Annie, her teammates, and future generations of swimmers will have access to this incredible community – one where everyone, with dedication, support, and a shared sense of purpose, has the opportunity to shine and make a splash.
Thank you in advance for playing your role on the team and making a gift in support of 92NY!
Happy New Year!
As we jingle all the way into the New Year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the past year and gear up for the exciting possibilities that 2024 holds. In the spirit of the “12 Days of Christmas,” we’ve wrapped up a special gift for you – 12 tips to enhance your personal development and boost your productivity in the coming year. Let’s unwrap the secrets to a more effective and fulfilling 2024!
1. On the First Day of Christmas, Prioritize Your Goals: Identify your most important objectives for the year and create a roadmap to achieve them. Setting clear priorities will keep you focused and motivated.
2. On the Second Day of Christmas, Embrace Mindfulness: Take moments throughout your day to practice mindfulness. Whether it’s deep breathing, meditation, or a quick walk, these breaks will enhance your concentration and overall well-being.
3. On the Third Day of Christmas, Declutter Your Space: A tidy workspace equals a tidy mind. Start the new year with a clean slate by decluttering your physical and digital spaces. An organized environment fosters productivity.
4. On the Fourth Day of Christmas, Learn Something New: Challenge yourself by acquiring a new skill or expanding your knowledge in an area of interest. Lifelong learning enriches your mind and opens doors to new opportunities.
5. On the Fifth Day of Christmas, Establish Healthy Habits: Good habits lay the foundation for success. Whether it’s regular exercise, a balanced diet, or sufficient sleep, prioritize your well-being to perform at your best.
6. On the Sixth Day of Christmas, Master Time Management: Efficiently manage your time by breaking tasks into smaller, manageable chunks. Utilize techniques such as the Pomodoro method to maintain focus and increase productivity.
7. On the Seventh Day of Christmas, Network and Collaborate: Build meaningful connections with others in your field. Networking and collaboration bring fresh perspectives, valuable insights, and new opportunities.
8. On the Eighth Day of Christmas, Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. Avoid burnout by creating a balance that allows you to recharge and tackle challenges with renewed energy.
9. On the Ninth Day of Christmas, Cultivate a Growth Mindset: Embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. A positive mindset empowers you to overcome obstacles and view setbacks as stepping stones to success.
10. On the Tenth Day of Christmas, Reflect Regularly: Take time to reflect on your accomplishments and challenges. Regular self-reflection enhances self-awareness, helping you make informed decisions and adjustments along your journey.
11. On the Eleventh Day of Christmas, Practice Gratitude: Count your blessings and express gratitude for the positive aspects of your life. A grateful mindset fosters resilience and a more optimistic outlook.
12. On the Twelfth Day of Christmas, Visualize Success: Envision your goals coming to fruition. Visualization can be a powerful motivator, inspiring you to take the necessary steps toward realizing your dreams.
Now that January is here and 2024 is underway let’s maximize the gift of personal development. You’re setting the stage for a year of growth and achievement by prioritizing goals, embracing mindfulness, and cultivating positive habits. Wishing you a joyous holiday season and a prosperous New Year filled with personal and professional success! As always, please feel free to reach out if we can be of help! We would love to work with you!
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