The first habit of Stephen Covey's 7 habits of highly effective people is to be proactive. This year we will be incorporating those habits into our program as we feel that each person has a unique gift and with continued caring we can unleash those gifts. We want our children to be caring, compassionate human beings who respect diversity and who know how to do the right things when faced with difficult decisions. Being proactive is doing the right thing when no one is looking. Did I call the ball out when it was really in? Being responsible and taking initiative are also being proactive. The two pictures above bring me so much joy as I was proactive in bringing Hillcrest to life when it was abandoned, and last year we brought Tennis on the Streets to kids who didn't have access to the courts. The difference it has made to so many kids is amazing - but it takes some initiative, hard work and responsibility to get started. It is a very important habit that we look forward to sharing with the kids.

A special thank-you to our amazing volunteers and staff who really make a difference to our program. It has been a sincere pleasure to work with each one who contributes so much to the positive influence the program has on our kids. I was extremely humbled by Rachel,one of our pros who now attends Trent University and who we have been teaching since she was 6 years old. On her own initiative she raised $1500 on a go-fund me campaign for our organization. It just brings me to tears to know that we really are a team who cares so deeply about the difference we are making in the community. I am so privileged to work with such an inspiring group of young leaders, who I have personally watched grow into wonderful young adults who will I am sure make a significant impact in their communities for years to come!