BBBS Volunteer Appreciation Dinner, Nashua NH.

Tonight was the night of the Gift of Friendship, the Big Brother and Big Sister Appreciation Dinner ! This was held at the beautiful Crowne Plaza Hotel in Nashua New Hampshire.We were treated to a fantastic buffet and a welcome from Joy Barrett.Then a terrific slide show was played on the screen with all the events of this past year.It was great to see the smiling children up on the screen with their big sisters and big brothers. It was fun to see my pictures up there at the events I had volunteered at. Then Joy did a really nice introduction of me and it was my turn on the stage. When I speak to groups about youth mentoring and why I am so passionate about it, I usually don't use a prepared speech. I like to talk from the heart and no matter how many times I talk about how my mentors (my grandparents) saved my life, I always get a catch in my voice. It is a story that even now holds so many emotions for me. I truly am blessed that I had such wonderful people who came to my rescue. After my speech I was surprised to be presented with a silver BBBS pin for my sash, I love the pin and I am grateful for the gift! Then the BBBS awards were presented such as the BBBS of the year, cheerleader, John Sias award, and the corporate award. Such remarkable people who give a piece of their heart to this organization, I'd love to give everyone in that room an award for what they do for the children. They are truly hero's and angels that make a difference in the lives of many children.It was a great event and I was honored to be a guest speaker.