Providing support to inspire confidence and hope in young people |
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Printed on Fri, May 18, 2007 Philanthropy at its Best By Larre Green, Social Columnist Ruth Stafford Peale, wife of the late Dr. Norman Vincent Peale, when talking bout how best to help others, said, "Find a need, and fill it." I don't know if Jeremy Pollard-Sommerlath and Lola Lawrence have heard that quote, but they are sure living by it. Not too long ago Mr. Pollard-Sommerlath and Ms. Lawrence, both of Colleyville, had a chance meeting with local jazz musician Rusty Johnson. It was during that meeting that they learned how Johnson's life changed dramatically at the age of 12, thanks to an introduction of music by his foster mother. Headed for trouble and conflict, the exposure transformed his life to one filled with hope and optimism. As a result, not only did Mr. Johnson become a successful jazz musician, he also began using his talents to help inspire other young people in the foster care system. Mr. Pollard-Sommerlath, a flight attendant for Delta Airlines, had already had the idea of an organization that would help young people achieve their dreams, and after hearing Mr. Johnson's story, the idea became reality when they learned that teens within Child Protective Services had never participated in any type of planned summer program emphasizing the arts. Thus the need, and now the opportunity to fill it! Mr. Pollard-Sommerlath founded the Inspired Dreams Foundation. Next, rather than take on some elaborate fundraiser, these two looked around closer to home... Ms. Lawrence's home, to be exact. Then, last month they hosted their fundraiser for the newly-formed foundation in hopes of raising enough money to send 20 foster care youths to various art camps this summer, based on the specific talents of the foster children. After days of work, Ms. Lawrence home was transformed into a Cabaret, including a dramatic stage and spotlights where guests enjoyed beautiful jazz music provided by new friend Rusty Johnson along with other local entertainers. I also heard that later into the evening, the even took on a more "open mike night" feeling and many of the attendees took to the stage showing off their own musical talents. The event was a smashing success and thus far, the two have reached half their goal. Here is how you can help them. I am not suggesting anyone go hungry or not pay the light bill here, but maybe if you have an extra $20 in the budget this week, why not used it to help pave the way for a young teen in foster care to have a week that he or she can forget they are in foster care and just have some fun? All donations are tax deductible [Inspired Dreams Foundation has 501(c)(3) nonprofit status] and can be sent to Inspired Dreams, P.O. Box 1921, Colleyville, Texas 76034. I don't know about you, but I am willing to give up a couple of lattes to help make a life just a bit better for those in need. Bravo to both Mr. Pollard-Sommerlath and Ms. Lawrence for not just seeing the need, but making every effort to fill it!
From left: Missy Matherne, Kathy Matherne, Jeremy Pollard-Sommerlath and Lola Lawrence at the "Cabaret" at Lawrence's home, raising money for summer arts for foster children. LARRE GREEN/ PHOTO CORRESPONDENT Inspired Dreams Foundation |
