A Message from VIP 23- Columbus
Team Energy Aurora, the 23rd class of Next Level Trainings’ Vision Impact Program (VIP), was given the opportunity to create an impactful community service project. We chose to support entire families in the community experiencing poverty and educational barriers.
Educational barriers are an obstacle for far too many people in the Columbus community. Youths and adults alike are eager for access to educational support and to learn valuable skills that will prepare them for positive, fulfilling lives and careers. Through its Youth and Family Education and Workforce Development programs, Godman Guild Association empowers members of our community to build strong families and a lasting community ties for generations to come.
On our journey to creating a world of freedom, unity, and love, we chose to support Godman Guild Association and their mission to empower families breaking through poverty with education and love. As we delved into learning about Godman Guild and the people they serve, we fell in love and realized how impactful this project could be. We became maniacs on a mission committed to breaking the cycle of poverty for generations to come.
Our team of only 33 students, and with half of us living in cities across the country, audaciously declared to raise $90,000 for Godman Guild Association in 21 days. We rallied support from friends, family, local businesses, and corporations. Our campaign touched lives and gained support from people as far as Saudi Arabia, Texas, Wisconsin, and Massachusetts. We became an unstoppable, united source for the families of Godman Guild.
We hosted two events to promote community and raise funds. Our first event was a delicious spaghetti dinner hosted at the Godman Guild, complete with trivia, music and connection with old and new friends alike. The community came together later that weekend to enjoy dancing, festival games, food, a bounce house, a raffle, and a silent auction at our family fun day.
When we hit our original goal of $90,000 a day and a half before our deadline, and kept the momentum going to $94,000! In addition to raising funds for Godman Guild, our team sourced over 1,600 tangible goods, volunteered around the clock for three weeks straight, and transformed Camp Mary Ortin into a fresh, inviting place for youth and family to experience nature and grow together.
Team Energy Aurora is astounded with the impact we created in a few short weeks! When a group of individuals come together and stand as a united source, there is truly no limit to what they are capable of creating in the world.
We want to thank every person who contributed to our campaign and supported our journey. Our hearts are filled with gratitude for each person we met and learned from along the way. Thank you to the Next Level community, coaches, leaders, and countless donors that supported us in making a difference for the families and staff of Godman Guild.