TEAM REPORT
WINTER 2020
ALL RISE for Gratitude As fall gives way to winter, temperatures drop,
leaves change to yellow and orange, eventually our trees will be bare. Then before we know it the temperature begins to rise, trees start to bud and give way to new foliage. As seasons come and go, I find myself pausing to reflect on days gone by and dreaming of tomorrow. One word keeps popping up in my mind: gratitude. Early in my teaching career, I discovered the great value of surrounding myself with mentors that were supportive, positive, and experienced. They stressed the importance of creating a positive classroom environment conducive for learning, gave me tips for handling challenges, and shared curriculum. Without this support, I’m not sure I would have been able to retire with nearly thirty years as a teacher and Director of Student Activities. With deep gratitude, I remember how these mentors sacrificed time, shared their expertise, and supported a young colleague. Frank, one of my leadership mentors, was a soft spoken, wise, and caring man. He shared a lesson with me that became an annual tradition in my classroom. Each December I would read “The Giving Tree” written by Shel Silverstein, to my Student Council and Leadership classes. This story, a parable about an apple tree and a boy, is sad yet comforting. The students would share their interpretation of the parable and we would discuss giving, receiving, gratefulness, friendship, and compassion. Each student was given a red apple ornament to show my
gratitude for each individual and their commitment to affect the culture and climate of their school in a positive way. Each day, ALL RISE Foundation pauses to appreciate the outpouring of support, words of encouragement, willingness to help, and donations. Our gratitude is heartfelt. We are thankful to have support from fans, friends, family, communities, small businesses, and corporations. Grateful for partners who have committed to sharing Aaron’s mission and contributing to our programs. All of the support we have received has inspired us to increase our reach. Research shows that there is a positive connection and correlation between gratitude and giving. It feels good to be grateful. Our gratitude continues to grow, along with our programs and initiatives. Expressing gratitude is more important than ever. This winter will be like no other we have experienced. Even as family, friends, and our communities have been negatively affected by an unprecedented COVID-19 crisis, we have the opportunity to focus on hope for better times and embrace a new normal. ALL RISE for gratitude!
Patty Judge Patty Judge, Aaron’s Mom Executive Director, Aaron Judge ALL RISE Foundation