Mine was found with the passing of my dear friend and business partner Gary Everson of AIDS in 1995.

He was a dedicated advocate for the local non-profit Rise n’Shine. So, now, by extension, so am I. Most of you know of my long-time dedication to the success of Rise n’ Shine – as from my first experience with the

staff 15 years ago, I remain in awe of their advocacy of these kids. The life-lasting care, and lessons learned, are inspiring examples of what RNS accomplishes! In fact, I am so inspired I recently accepted the position of Board President of RNS influenced in large part by the real growth and measureable success that I’ve seen every year.

I have witnessed

numerous examples of children who have grown to be productive young adults, impacted by the love of Rise n’ Shine. I remember one boy in particular; early on, in his life, he faced a simple choice typical of young people – spend a day with an RNS counselor or hang out with a group of friends. He chose time with the counselor; the group got involved in a fight and someone died that day. Today that same boy is an amazing young man taking care of his young siblings. Another time at RNS camp I saw two children, from ethnically diverse backgrounds, 5 years different in age, comfort one another with hugs and tears when reminded of their individual losses. A truly

humbling experience for me and a deep reminder of why Rise n’ Shine is so important. Such children suffer the ongoing pain and confusion that comes with an immediate family member afflicted with HIV/AIDS; some even have the disease. On and on the stories go and there is no immediate end in sight. But so often Rise n’Shine makes a huge difference to these children. So long as children are in need, RNS is determined to help – and I’m equally determined to ensure the organization has the resources it needs to continue it’s amazing work. Rise n’Shine is the voice for these children, dedicated to putting them on the path to LONG TERM SUCCESS.