09/27/2024
Today, my thoughts are with all of the Keyes family, the emergency responders who answered the call to Platte Canyon High School, and the community that was impacted by the events of September 27th, 2006.
While I was hiking to the 14,000 foot summit of Mt. Bierstadt yesterday, the Foundation's Mission Statement, which still stands today eighteen years later, and a quote came to mind.
Mission. To restore and protect the joy of youth through educational programs and positive actions in collaboration with families, schools, communities, organizations and government entities. I am honored to be in the room every week as part of that collaborative effort to protect the joy of youth, and at times, guide apathy into action by creating advocates.
Protecting the joy of youth. I will never apologize to anyone for helping keep kids safe. I spent a part of my career with some of the best professionals in the world protecting people we never knew. Some of that still remains in this mission. We will never have the opportunity to meet every student, staff, or community member, but we can empower the participants in the room with the ability and resources to carry that torch.
Quote. "People come into your life for a reason, a season, or a lifetime". When applied to the Foundation, I truly believe I have crossed paths with people all over this country for a reason. Some of those relationships remain, and although it may only be for a season, it was part of the path and was meant to be. Lastly, thank you to the Keyes family for allowing me the opportunity of a lifetime and giving me a voice.
This bracelet will continue to travel...