Dear NJYC of Phillipsburg Friends and Family -
Gratitude.
Webster’s Dictionary defines gratitude in the following way: : a feeling of appreciation or thanks, the state of being grateful.
On Tuesday- as we gathered in our YC kitchen after we enjoyed another Thanksgiving meal Tuesday, we went around the room and expressed what we were thankful for - how we were grateful.
“Gratitude : a feeling of appreciation or thanks, the state of being grateful. ”
Some Corpsmembers expressed their appreciation for a program that accepted them as they were - others gave thanks to their friends, their pets, and the supportive networks that keep them going. Some Corpsmembers expressed their appreciation as to how NJYC accepted them and quickly became an extension of their families - familiar and supportive - and that they loved the new environment they were in. It was all really humbling.
Over the past year, we’ve seen our Corpsmembers face insurmountable odds - and overcome them. We’ve seen them succeed when all others had written them off as failures. We’ve seen miracles - and setbacks-and have seen Corpsmemebres rise to the occasion and change our minds as they defy expectations. We’ve planted, harvested, cut, maintained, weeded, discovered, painted, built, preserved, blazed, trimmed, mapped, studied, tested, and succeeded. We Graduated!
We are so blessed to be a small part of the lives that cross the threshold into our YC world and embark on their individual quests for success. What a privilege to be witness to their success!
It is important to acknowledge the appreciation we have for our partners, our funders, and our participants. We couldn’t do this work with you all, and we are forever in your debt for your continued support of our work. It is not only timely - but appropriate to express our thanks and appreciation for all you do to support the NJ Youth Corps of Phillipsburg and the Corps Movement as a whole. We couldn’t do this with YOU.
With gratitude in our hearts and appreciation for each and every one of you reading this - We wish you a Happy & Safe Thanksgiving to you and your families. We are so blessed to count you among our supporters.
With gratitude-
Michael