Thank You From Stand Up For Kids
April 10, 2014
Dear Members of the Northbrook Rotary Club,
I would like to take an opportunity to sincerely thank each and every one of you for your help in collecting and donating toiletries to Stand Up For Kids. Most of us are unable to imagine a world in which the privilege of taking a shower is not an everyday occurrence; but for the kids that we are striving to help, that world is a reality. You have no idea how much it means to these kids to be able to go into the local YMCA and get cleaned up. And thanks to your thoughtful donations, these kids are able to work towards implementing better hygienic practices.
Despite the fact that these young people deal with various struggles every day, receiving help from people like you, whether it be in the form of volunteering or providing a donation, means a tremendous amount to this group of homeless youth. Two weeks ago I had a few of the teens at the shelter share what Stand Up For Kids meant to them. I have attached some of their comments. Three of the kids pulled me aside and shared that the family atmosphere that the Center generates has changed and even improved their outlook on life.
In the last two years, 118 kids have visited the center. Last September, 95% of the kids visiting the Center were back in school or working. We have not polled them recently, but you can tell from their stories that the 95% margin seems to be holding. Each night you can feel the trust and family-feeling illuminate from the kids. We have watched them change from defensive individuals to family members when they are in the Center.
Our Board has spent the past three months looking at our plans for the future. I would like to share those plans with you.
Please recognize how incredibly important you have been to our homeless kids. We all want to do more for these amazing individuals. I am writing to try to express all of our sincere thanks to you. Please accept it and/or come down to the Center and experience it.
With a great deal of respect.
Brian Russell
Executive Director, Stand Up For Kids
Stand Up For Kids 1000 Skokie Blvd., Suite 155 Wilmette, IL 60091