Journal # 4 Pink in the City....Just for you

Nothing makes me more proud than to be able to give the gift of life.

What started as an idea, from   a little boy, has taken off to a non profit organization. An entire team of talented, passionate and driven volunteers inspiring the community, working together toward a common vision.  Wow, who would have ever thought that was possible.

What has been incredible to see is the individual commitment each person makes to work as a team. Everyone working together to accomplish so much.  Trusting one another to make it happen, coming together to create a beautiful story, one that gives the gift of life to so many wonderful people.

Each member brings their strength, and their can do attitude to make a difference.  All have a shared understanding of the importance of giving.

There is a great quote by Maya Angelou......."I've learned that people will forget what you said,  people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel "

Each time you make someone feel special, appreciated and respected, they will not forget.

Pink in the City does just that.  Takes great pride in what they do, makes others proud, inspired and a desire to be the best you can be.

After many months of preparation this past year, it is truly gratifying when it all comes together,  all the hard work, all the challenges, all the sleepless nights, the countless hours of follow-up. Our greatest reward is to give back to something we have identified that is truly important to us. Over 200 sponsors, countless volunteers and supporters are by our side to make it all possible for us.

We are grateful.

In the last  9 years, we have raised over 200,000$.  Every year, host various events throughout the year to raise awareness through Model the way program and activities. We have many key accomplishments and lots to be proud, lots to be grateful.  Join us May 1, 2015......to celebrate with us for our our biggest event of the year....www.pinkinthecity.ca !

You drive us and give us strength to do what we do for so many.......Thank You Pink in the City for taking this little idea and embracing it with everything you got  ! Thanks to all of our volunteers and supporters, this would not be possible -  Pink in the City exists because of all the special people that makes it a success - join us to celebrate our survivors and honour all those we love !

I will leave you with this special note from a very dear friend....

"Just for you"

"Where to begin ? I first met Denise in 1976 and she offered me her friendship instantly. Not long
after, Bobby became my friend as well. It was evident from day one that I had become friends
with two very extraordinary people.  They have always had great Team Spirit and ben generous
and giving.  We have watched each other mature and have families of our own, sometimes from
more of a distance than I would have preferred, but I could always count on that Christmas or birthday card from my dear friends, the Vourtzoumis family. When I first heard about Lawrence
participating in the Shave to Save Program, and then the friendly competition between the brothers, I was not surprised.  There could not be any doubt that these two wonderful people would instil their high morals and values to their children.  And if that was not enough, they created Pink in the City.  Giving their time and support, and that of other family members and friends, for this very worthwhile cause.   They continue to raise much needed funds through various fundraisers and activities.  How they managed to do this while maintaining busy careers and a happy home, is beyond me.
I do know that, for this and so much more, I am exceedingly grateful. Not only to call them my lifelong friends, but also because I am a  13year Breast Cancer Survivor and without good, no....AWESOME people like the Vourtzoumis Family, that statement might not be possible.
Thank You for all you have done to raise funds and awareness and most of all, thank you Denise for welcoming me into your circle all those years ago at BBHS"

xo
Dawna Tolbart,
Lasalle, Quebec

Pink in the City Journal #3.....Thank You to all the amazing volunteers 2015 !

This week signifies recognition for the countless volunteers we have not just for pink in the city, but for all the volunteers everywhere.  I am really lucky to work first hand with some incredible and special people.  Their ongoing committment, their passion, drive and energy is just contagious.  There are really no words that best describe what they do, but do know for a fact that they are the strongest, kindest and most compassionate people. 

I am so proud of Pink in the City and the dedication  to the advancement of young leaders and volunteers. Pink in the City encourages you to build volunteer active communites and engage young students to take an active role towards creating leaders, mentors & volunteers to bring positive change and participate in community type outeach programs. Pink in the City focuses on leadership development, mentorship & volunteerism with school partners send a strong message.....
　

Volunteerism  has always been a big part of my  life and mu children's life -   to promote goodness and improve human quality of life ! I would not have it any other way.  Each one of us can contribute in some way.....reach out to someone,  

Over the last 9 years,  Pink in the City has donated time and energy  thanks to all the volunteers to raise awareness, fundraise and model the way in the community. .
Thanks to all of our supporters and volunteers that believe in our cause, believe that we can make a difference and believe that we can create success stories in our very own neighborhoods, we have a story we are proud of.

As I look back over the year, I am just amazed but not surprised at our accomplishments. What began as a fundraising initiative and family activity, has evolved into a non profit foundation with a network reaching out to our family, friends, breast cancer survivors and community partners helping us to create awareness, fighting to save lives, empower people, ensure quality care and most of all, together make a difference...however small or big....each of your actions makes a huge difference.

Hardly a day passes without one of our members working on making Pink in the city known, share our story and talk about how special this is to us. It is not easy as you can imagine, but when we see how far we have come, it inspires us to go further. We have a goal to raise a minimal of 125,000  May 1st....can we do it ?? we can with alot of hard work and endless hours of follow-up and planning....we are almost there !

Our vision is to continue to inspire you by sharing with you our stories, challenges and successes . As we get ready for our big event, we will certainly keep you up to date with our progress and hoping that you will also be able to help us in your special way - and every lit bit helps....we have had angels helping us everywhere....we are grateful !

Volunteers offer a tremendous amount of extra hours every day to volunteer- and this in addition to all of their responsibilities. It is certainly not easy and that is why we are very grateful when our network reaches out to us on how they can help.

It has been action packed, ask any volunteer and they will say the same. The team behind the scenes  has one common goal, and that is  to graciously accept the challenge. We are honored they have and thank each member of this team and all volunteers whole heartedly.

You are all so special and amazing, Thank you for all your contributions, most of all, your caring and loving personalities !

Pink in the City Journal #2....authentic connections !

Teachers play an incredible role in a students upbringing. They inspire, encourage and support them unconditionally. They are involved and have a great gift to make a positive difference for young students.  They not only teach, but they are great mentors and bring out the best in them.   I know first hand some very special ladies that did just that.  There are no words to express my gratitude to them. When I saw the bond between Lawrence and his teachers, I knew he was in good hands.  They just had an amazing positive attitude not only with Lawrence, but with all their students. Teachers really have the power to influence and these three ladies did just that.  They continue to be role models and make a huge difference in the lives of children, I know they did for Lawrence.

That first year in 2006 when Lawrence decided to shave his head for breast cancer, they were by his side in every way, at school and out. How do you thank these special teachers that shape the minds of our children ? I know I am very grateful for them being a part of our lives and most important, Lawrence's. I am hoping all parents out there, that have  incredible teachers,  that you take the time to thank and let them know how important they are in your child's life.

Parents and teachers are like partners when it comes to teaching - both at school and home.  If this partnership and understanding does not exist, it will make it very difficult to work together. Everyone has a role to play in raising a child and if teachers and parents work together, the best interests of the child are addressed.   I am thankful that throughout the school years of all my 3 boys were blessed with the most amazing teachers.

When I met Lawrence's teachers - Ms Daklaras, Ms Janzic and Ms Verardi - I knew right away, they were not just ordinary teachers. They had made a connection with Lawrence, and they believed in him.  What I found amazing was that they were patient, inspired the kids and made the teaching subject interesting. They worked hard with the students, but they also worked hard to make school fun. These ladies were exceptional....and went above the call of duty - best teachers ever ! Who else would come out on halloween morning really early, before starting school to be there for Lawerence ? They did, they were there proudly standing by his side at fairview shopping centre for his first shave.  When teachers care enough, it is admirable.   Thank you for doing such a great job at teaching our kids and for being the caring and incredible teachers we so want every student to have. Encouraging young students to be involved in the community and part of a charity is exactly what everyone should be doing.  These teachers did their part well, they showed great encouragement and confidence in Lawrence.

My advice to all parents is to visit the classrooms, participate in school activities and become involved with your son or daughter's school.  Sometimes, parents don't meet on a regular basis with the school staff or participate in the orientation meetings, parent-teacher meetings or just monthly school meetings - this can definitely make a difference in the success of your child at school.  Parent involvement is key for student achievement.  Parents and teachers working together have the biggest impact - get involved and always remember you do have the greatest influence.

So it is with pleasure to celebrate the value of what students like Lawrence have done for the community and the people behind the scenes that have supported with enthusiasm and passion !
They bring true value to model the way...

1st Shave

Lawrence with his 3 teachers 

Pink in the City Journal #1....getting started

Wow, I cannot believe how fast things are going.  As we get closer to the event that holds a special place in my heart, I think it is important to share with you my thoughts on our Pink in the City story, it's evolution, what has been accomplished and simply, an account of all the hard work and hours of dedication from all who have had a major part in making not only the event a success, but what it stands for. With less than 4 weeks left, it's really important to note and share what everyone is thinking and feeling , and maybe by sharing my personal story, it can make a big difference for someone out there. I am hoping that by writing about my experiences it will help many out there see opportunities on what they can do, how they can contribute. 

So much has taken place in the last 9 years, and although, lots will be shared the night of the event, this is a great way for me to share what makes Pink in the City special. For the entire month of April, I will be keeping a journal of our accomplishments, challenges, great moments I want to remember and a diary of valuable lessons I have learned. I am hoping that by sharing my thoughts leading up to our Pink in the City Spring Charity Ball 2015, it will enlighten my readers and help future generations know how we started, why and what continues to drive us !

9 years ago, when Lawrence decided that he wanted to make a difference for countless breast cancer patients - he had 12 days to raise his money. At the age of 11, he had a purpose. A purpose to achieve something he put his mind to. He knew that he had a difficult goal ahead for himself, but he was determined and was not giving up. He put everything he had into this small act of kindness. Deep down, he knew that all of us have an essential role in contributing to the success of the ongoing fight against cancer and disease. God knows that there are plenty of dreadful diseases out there, The satisfaction that Lawrence and our entire family felt at the end of the 12 days was one of a kind. You can help make a difference for someone fighting, There is no greater feeling than that. It has been an amazing journey and what has been really clear is that we can make any goal or dream a  reality with determination and dedication.

We all have friends and family that have been affected by cancer, many are surviving with treatment and sadly many have lost the battle. Pink in the City is here to support those fighting. Proud to have donated over the past 9 years thousands of dollars to fund various programs to support in the fight against breast cancer. Remembering back in 2006 little Lawrence at the age of 11 who took it upon himself to recruit his family and friends to help him in his journey to make his contribution in the way he knew best. I was just amazed to watch him quickly put together his cans and jars....dressed them up with boas and started to let everyone he knew about his venture. Nothing was going to stand in his way.

You might ask, how is this significant for Pink in the City today ?? My take away from all of this is when you set yourself a goal, whatever that may be, with lots of determination, you would be surprised how much you can achieve. Thanks to incredible donors, the fact that they chose to give donations and participate in our cause was just amazing. People came together to help us reach our target.  Everyone made a contribution and everyone cared enough to make a difference.  Our Spring Ball is fast approaching and in 25 days will be celebrating a community that has come together, most of all, celebrating all of the efforts demonstrated towards humanity. We are down to the wire, if Lawrence can start a 12 day fundraising goal to raise 2000, what can an entire community do in 25 days ??

So, the challenge is on and ask all of our supporters, friends and families to help us get the word out ! Please join us to support the actions Lawrence demonstrated to raise funds. The actions many in our community demonstrate every single day. The actions Pink in the City team has been working all through the year. The satisfaction to give back will be one of a kind, just like it was for Lawrence.

Thank you to all reaching out to us.....those we know and many we don't know. Just has been humbling with the overwhelming support, words cannot describe.

Who would have ever thought, that a simple request would have us all so proud today. I know I am extremely proud to know that what we all are doing supports each survivor in a very special way.

No matter how young you are....you can make a difference....