Showing Up

It’s been six months since the start of Chummy, and I feel heartened by the friends, families, and community members I’ve had the opportunity to work with. We’ve held four Chummy events, and people have shown up. Worked. Contributed. Demonstrated to their children what giving back looks like. 

The kids, though, the kids are who truly give me hope. 

As I get to know the children who participate in Chummy events, I feel better about our uncertain world. (New! Disappearing human rights, hurricanes, midterm elections!) These kids are happy and kind; they are buoyant and confident; they are curious and determined. They have the ability to take the reins (and right the course). 

Giving your children the opportunity to give back is good for them, too! When kids volunteer, they learn how to work together in groups. They learn how to think about and interact with people that are different from themselves. They feel empowered to right wrongs, which is not only good for the world, but good for their own mental health. I can already see these benefits in my own children, as well as in their friends they’ve worked alongside at Chummy events.

I’ll end with a hearty thank you. Thank you for helping bring Chummy to life. Thank you for being phenomenal parents. Keep showing up.

Bethany