I'm stepping up for WINGS - and I want you to join me. This month, Wings for Kids has launched an online campaign Step Up for WINGS: Help Our Kids Soar Through Summer. The goal is to raise money, awareness, and enthusiasm for this program, that has been serving children and families since 1996. 2020 has been tough and WINGS kids need the WINGS program like never before. 

WINGS is an afterschool program that teaches low-income kids the social and emotional skills to give them the tools they need to succeed in school, stay in school, and thrive in life. When WINGS kids learn these lessons, try new firsts (like chess or lacrosse), and experience new places (like trips to colleges or museums), they begin to see new possibilities for themselves. WINGS teaches kids things like how to be self-aware, how to build relationships, how to manage their emotions, how to be empathetic, and how to make positive decisions.

WINGS is very near and dear to me. My mom started WINGS when I was 7 years old. I attended the WINGS for Girls camp for two summers (yep, that's me in the photo!) and then helped as a junior WINGS leader when the program moved to an afterschool program at Memminger Elementary. WINGS was a huge part in forming who I am today. I have personally seen the teachings of WINGS transform kids' behaviors and change kids' lives for the better. 

At WINGS, we have Words to Live By that the kids say, sing, chant, shout each day to remind them of the lessons that they are learning and to serve as a compass to help them navigate all aspects of their life. I am pledging to live out these words everyday for the next month. As I receive donations I will post updates on how I am living these words! Here it is: 

I soar with WINGS.
Let me tell you why. I learn lots of
skills that help me reach the sky.

I love and accept who I am on the
inside and know my emotions are
nothing to hide.

Life’s full of surprises that make
me feel different ways.
If I can control myself,
I’ll have much better days.

I understand the choices I make
should be what’s best for me to do,
and what happens is on me
and not any of you.

I understand others are unique.
I want to learn more about everyone
I meet. I want to step into their shoes
and see what they are going through.

I am a friend. I support and trust.
Working together is a must.
Kind and caring I will be.
I listen to you. You listen to me.

I soar with WINGS.
I just told you why.
All of these things are why I fly high.

I can't think of a better time to help these kids make this world we live in a better place! Please help me in raising $2,500 which will sponsor one child to go to WINGS for one year.

Please visit their website to learn more about the program. https://www.wingsforkids.org/