Thursday, May 22, 2008

Why should you give back to the younger generation?

Last night I had the honor and privilege to present a college scholarship to a deserving high school senior from the Streetsboro City Schools. As president of the Streetsboro Area Chamber of Commerce I presented a $1200.00 college scholarship to William Germani who was selected through an application process that included scholastic, community service and commitment to business.

To my delight and surprise William will be majoring in Marketing, something obviously close to my heart, and has a desire to change the world. He will be attending the University of Akron, so another Zip is born. He demonstrates the future with his desire, talents and maturity.

So again I ask, “Why should you give back?” To be part of this 3 hour annual awards dinner and witness the accomplishments of these young adults is thrilling and also comforting. I know our schools and our society will survive as long as we have the commitment to never say no. Surely these seniors got a lot out of it, as did parents and teachers. Still the question remains, “Why should I give back?” Well the answer should be simple by now. You help provide for the future and you can share your experiences and talents with the next generation. As any teacher knows, when you are teaching you are also learning.

My advice is to get involved with your schools, community, chamber, or other groups and organizations. As Teddy Roosevelt stated, “Every man owes a part of his time and money to the business or industry in which he is engaged. No man has a moral right to withhold his support from an organization that is striving to improve conditions within his sphere.”

Bruce

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