Inspiration & Role Models
Inspiration comes from a variety of sources. I am forever grateful to those who have shared the lessons learned along the way …to connect “Inspiration and Role Models” seemed natural. I guess one of the things that I find most inspiring is seeing people who excel and have developed a passion to share their experience.
Academy of Achievement for those of you who want to read more about how and why people reach their life goals.
Biographies offer a fascinating look into people and their stories. See what makes them tick!
Character First and Character Counts are two links for parents and teachers who are interested in more information on character development and education.
Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation is dedicated to curing spinal cord injury by funding innovative research, and improving the quality of life for people living with paralysis through grants, information and advocacy. And it’s a great site to visit when your inspiration level is “down a quart.”
Dreams for Kids works to break down social barriers and end the isolation of children in need. “Our mission is to empower young people of all abilities through dynamic leadership programs and life-changing activities that inspire them to fearlessly pursue their dreams and compassionately change the world.” Don’t visit this site unless you’re ready to ‘get hooked!’
Turkeys for America is proof that kids can make a BIG difference! They’re young – and they’ve been doing this for a while.
The Acts of Kindness Foundation inspires people to practice kindness and to “pass it on” to others. Find free educational and community ideas, guidance, and other resources for ‘kindness participants’.
[Tweet “I am forever grateful to those who have shared the lessons learned along the way.”]
Craigslist Foundation is building a platform for civic engagement and offers a variety of great tools for learning, sharing and connecting with others.
Cristina Foundation helps people with special needs. Keep the focus on giving by recycling your old computers.
The Foundation for a Better Life is a non-profit organization dedicated to sharing the values that make a difference in communities.
Gratefulness provides resources for “living in the gentle power of gratefulness.”
Life Lessons for Kids links to articles on topics including persistence, integrity and loving life.
Great Non-Profits has reviews of organizations, their needs and opportunities to volunteer.
Idealist.org is the site used by Action Without Borders to connect people, organizations, and resources to help build a world where all people can live free and dignified lives. Volunteering your time is a great way to solidify values of giving.
Optimist International provides hope and positive vision. Optimism brings out the best in our kids!
Pay It Forward When author Catherine Ryan Hyde wrote Pay It Forward she did not expect to start a social movement. The purpose of this site is to gather together as many real stories as possible. It brings recognition to those doing the work and inspires others. And, as the author says “It’s also a source of some good news for a change, a way to renew your faith in human nature.” A collection of real life examples. Overcoming adversity, personal discipline, natural talent, hard work and generosity are alive and well… and occasionally even make the news!
Successful business + inspiring stories = Greyston Bakery
Succeeding against the odds and helping others do the same. The Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans offers great scholarships to deserving college-bound high school students.
Remember the movie Pursuit of Happyness? Here’s Chris Gardner’s biography.
I’ve been a fan of artist Michael Jurogue Johnson for a long time. Click here to see why.
Daring to Live Fully has some great ideas for building your bucket list and here’s a great article about Radical Optimism.
