I found Austin & Anthony Aceves and their mother Megan Aceves manning a lemonade stand on the corner of a street in my neighborhood. Three ordinary people doing what they can to make a difference in society. The boys, who attend Vista del Mar in San Clemente, are participating in their school's drive to support the Luekemia and Lymphatic Society School & Youth Programs.
Even at their young ages the Aceves boys are not strangers to fund-raising. Last year they raised money for an animal rescue group. The boys are excited to be involved and are looking forward to continuing their endeavors on an annual basis. The boys' mother is proud of her sons' desire to give back to the community and volunteers her time and efforts to support their causes. Kudos to Megan and parents like Megan for instilling the value of being "other oriented" in children.
One of the most important ways to set yourself apart in a community is to be involved - to be a giver. I believe that the majority of people in any community have good intentions when it comes to giving. Where they appear to fall short is in actions.
The Top 3 Excuses:
- Lack of time
- Lack of experience
- Lack of money
If you take a serious look at others who are actively serving their community you'll find that most of them are in the same boat. The only difference is that they've found a way to overcome the obstacles.
I recently read an article written by freelance writer Sharon Tetrault in Orange Coast Magazine - April 2007. The article, profiling the Aitken Family of Anaheim Hills, CA, touched me and got me to thinking about excuses that I have been making. In 1977, Wylie Aitken, an attorney with a successful legal practice, who had recently been elected to the state trial bar, was faced with a choice. He had been asked by his son's youth soccer league to volunteer as a team coach. Wylie, who had no experience with either soccer or coaching, and who already was a busier-than-average guy, bought a book about soccer and coaching and presto...he was a coach!
So, what are the Top 3 Ways to Overcome the Obstacles?
- Make the time (stagger your work hours, take less vacation, and request assistance from others)
- Step out of your area of expertise if necessary (and became willing to learn)
- Forget the money (if you don't have it somebody else will)
After reading the article on the Aitken Family and seeing the Aceves family in action. I am personally moved to become more active in my community. I challenge you to do the same. Giving back feels good.
Kelly Kilpatrick, REALTOR®, ABR®, e-PRO®
Gold Coast Realty/Rancho Santa Margarita CA
Cell: (949) 903-0030 Fax: (949) 209-4511
mailto:kkilpatrick@cox.net
http://www.exclusiveochomes.com/
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