I’ll never forget what it was like being a young paperboy and seeing that front-page leading story. I always thought to myself, “When I grow up!”
I’m not sure if kids still have paper routes, but growing up in Ann Arbor, MI, my very first job was as a paperboy for the Ann Arbor News. Every year, there was a major feature about the “Citizen of the Year.” This person was celebrated for making a meaningful impact in the Ann Arbor, MI, area. Over time, I discovered there was also a “Young Citizen of the Year” award. That level of recognition felt slightly more within reach—and it became my dream. From what I gathered, the award highlighted youth who were making a difference both inside and outside the classroom.
During my senior year of high school, something exciting happened—my parents nominated me for the “Young Citizen of the Year” award, and I was selected as a finalist! I
still have the article today. It’s not on my official “Inspirational Wall,” but it’s in the room where I showcase progress: the article, my degrees, and even a hand-painted Chicago flag. It’s a visual
representation of #fullcircle.
Like always, I’m squeezing in this blog while traveling. This time, it’s in between a couple of trips. First, I visited Ann Arbor, MI, to reconnect with close friends and to celebrate our collective 40th birthdays.
Next, I flew down to Georgia to spend time with my parents. When I recently revisited that old article, only one change seemed necessary: the title. I think it should now read, “Middle-Aged Volunteer Finds Meaning and Purpose in Giving Back to Others.” My nieces and nephews might disagree with that “middle-aged” label, but I’m sticking with it!
Back then, winning that “Young Citizen of the Year” award felt like a dream come true. These days, I’ve noticed various “40 Under 40” lists circulating in LinkedIn groups and among friends. I don’t fully understand what they entail, yet I know making such a list would be a remarkable acknowledgment of the sacrifices made along the way.
As I celebrated turning 40 with friends (and their kids), I had a realization: I may never make it onto one of those lists—and that’s okay. Recognition has never been my motivation for volunteering. While my parents gave me the initial nudge to get involved, my dedication to serving others has always come from within. Part of our mission at Cardz for Kidz focuses on reaching small, often overlooked nonprofits worldwide. Running a global nonprofit while maintaining a full-time job is exhausting, but every smile I see reminds me that the ROI (return on investment) is absolutely worth it.
Reflecting on reaching this milestone birthday and my time spent with loved ones, I’m filled with gratitude. No, I may no longer be eligible for placement on a “40 Under 40” list, but I’ve been able to lead Cardz for Kidz while maintaining my full-time (40+ hours/week) job, thanks to our incredible volunteers. We’re progressing steadily through our Order of Operations, and I’m especially grateful for the artists and groups who’ve joined us for the Right Reasons. While our work hasn’t garnered much formal recognition or official awards (yet!), the dedication of our volunteers proves their belief in our cause.
Things may have changed since those days as a young paperboy dreaming of recognition, but I’m very thankful to have found a community of artists and supporters who agree: a smile is INSPIRATION ENOUGH. Together, we remain focused on making a difference, driven not by “What’s in it for me?” but by a shared passion to uplift others—one card at a time.
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