My Monthly Charity June 2009

I have selected my local Boys & Girls Club of Albany as My Monthly Charity for June 2009. Through it’s programs and services the Boys & Girls Club helps aid the development of children from 5-20 years of age.

“The Mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Albany is to inspire and enable all young people, especially those from disadvantaged circumstances, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens.”
- Boy & Girls Club of Albany Mission Statement

The Club is a place for boys and girls to grow and learn with the aid of adult professionals. Focusing on those that may be in disadvantaged situations, these professionals provide support to give these kids opportunity and hope while making it a fun experience.

The Boys and Girls Club’s strategy focuses on a set of senses that they want to give the children they work with. Through their program they want to instill the following senses in their kids:

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• A sense of competence- acquisition of new skills, pride and confidence in those new skills and achievements
• A sense of usefulness- through helping others, the club, and the community
• A sense of belonging- feeling welcome, accepted, and secure at the club
• A sense of power and influence- knowing that their opinions are heard and valued

**(source: http://www.bgcalbany.com/about/)

The Boys & Girls Club provides a safe, positive and fun place for kids to grow up with positive self esteem to enhance their lives. Help out the Boys & Girls Club of Albany or find out how you can help your local Boys & Girls Club.

My Tribute from One Michael to Another

Michael Jackson that is and I just want to say a few words.

On July 25, 2009 an icon so big has passed away that we probably won’t see another of the likes of this every again. Hands down the most iconic person that ever lived.  There is no match when it comes to worldwide fame.  Even after death he controls the airways worldwide and this story will be around for a while.

The King of Pop changed the world in so many ways with his music, dance, humanitarian efforts and so much more. His global reach is almost unfathomable and his influences will continue to live on through many musicians and dancers.

Upon news of his possible death in the age Internet, MJ crippled internet giants Twitter and Facebook.  Some even say the Michael literally slowed down the Internet (not really).

Even through tough personal tribulations in the last decade or so, he was beloved by so many around the world. I can remember the how cool I thought the Beat It and Thriller videos were back in the day and they still rock.

I’ve been privileged enough to have witnessed the era of an icon that was larger than life.  May the King of Pop rest in peace.