by April | Education
To often in society, the focus is on athletic prowess or celebrity; not so much on focusing on the growth of the youth and celebrating their academic accomplishments. In this vein The Blue Heart Foundation held its 3rd Annual Signing Day and Awards Ceremony. The purpose of this dinner is to acknowledge the dedication and drive of the members of the Blue Heart Foundation’s mentoring program HEART (Higher Education And Rising Together) as they work to improve the quality of life of themselves as well as community.
As Blue Heart graduated their second class of seniors the feel was that one that created a sense of celebration as well as community. These young men are the driving force for many successful community clean-ups, programs and events. Blue Heart feels it’s very important to acknowledge these young men for their accomplishments. Cassandra Irving exclaimed “Our son has had the wonderful opportunity to be part of such a great experience, The Blue Heart Foundation Inc., has given him various opportunities to better himself, and in doing so has extended his perceptions of how much he can impact others as well as himself, by showing compassion for others’ lives, and experiences. He has always had words of encouragement to share with others, but his participation with Blue Heart has allowed actions as well.”
As the awards portion of the event began with the recognition from: – Ashley Campbell – Community Aide to Susan Davis, U.S. Representative for California’s 53rd congressional District – Stephanie R. Allen – Assistant to U.S. Representative for California’s 51st congressional district Juan Vargas and our great friend – Mathew Gordon – Community Representative for San Diego City Council President Myrtle Cole Mathew’s beautifully compelling presentation filled the room with appreciation and love.
Now we get to signing day … Where will the seniors be taking the next step in their academic journey? First was Dylon Renee Irving who committed to Morehouse College followed by Quincy Ferebee (Southwestern College) whom stated “When Tracy trusted me, I has no choice but to give 110 %. Next was Shamari Linton (CSU San Marcos) followed by Kai Miller (CSU San Marcos), Julien Juju Bean Moore (Fullerton College and concluding with Xavier Tillis (CSU San Marcos) whom said “I’m not done with Blue Heart and going to come back to mentor” I’m proud to be a member of The Blue Heart Foundation.” For more on The Blue Heart Foundation visit their website at theblueheartfoundation.org
by April | Volunteerism
April 29th at 6 AM on a chilly, early Saturday morning as HEART (Higher Education and Rising Together) rose to the challenge and volunteered to walk for babies… After raising money for March of Dimes, HEART also contributed throughout the day. Setting up tents, moving tables, carrying water and any other opportunities where we could lend a helping hand. As HEART Member Dylon Irving stated, “Volunteering benefits the community as it shows you support it and its people”.
When you walk in March for Babies, you give hope to nearly half a million babies born too soon each year. The money you raise supports programs in your community that help moms have healthy, full-term pregnancies. And it funds research to find answers to the problems that threaten our babies
After cheering on thousands of walkers including Blue Heart parents the entire BH Family continued to the second half of their purposeful day. One where they would take the time to get to know each other as family should, before sitting down to a delicious BBQ meal and after a rousing game of football with the boys… Each took the time to introduce themselves, in a large circle every family came to the center and spoke love and life from child to parent and vice versa. This was truly a community moment.
Tracy Morris (CEO of Blue Heart) would later say “I’m always amazed and inspired when the young men from HEART show up for volunteer service… After all how often do you see high school teens show up for volunteer work at 6 AM. There was not one complaint from over 30 teenage boys from 6 to 2 PM)
“All we have is each other and we have to constantly give back to our community, whether it’s money , time, or expertise. It’s the only way we will get better.” says HEART member Xavier Tillis … The Blue Heart Foundation is a registered 501(c)3 organization, find out how you can contribute or join us by contacting us via email at theblueheartfoundation@gmail.com
by April | Team Building
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Blue Heart Foundation and Outdoor Outreach had the opportunity to spend the morning helping restore native habitats at the San Diego National Bay Refuge. The two organizations continue an established partnership that provides new opportunities for urban youth to experience the natural world and promote interest in conservation and the biological sciences. “Many Americans find it difficult to experience nature in an increasingly urban America. This has profound implications for the health and well-being of our citizens and the future of our nation,” said U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Director Dan Ashe
Working as a collaborate team each organization laid mulch to prevent weeds, removed invasive species and watered native plants. Native vegetation at the Jonathan Sellers and Charlie Keever Outdoor Educational Activity Center was planted by school children from Imperial Beach. “The partnership with Blue Heart and Outdoor Outreach allows us to provide opportunities for these young African American men to learn about protected lands in San Diego and to enjoy the natural beauty surrounding them.” – Chantel Jimenez US Fish and Wildlife Service
It was an honor to restore and beautify the Memorial that honors the lives of two friends whose lives were taken to soon. Jonathan Sellers- and Charlie Keever will be remembered forever and remind us that a child’s life is precious. Joe McLeod COO of Outdoor Outreach would later say “The Blue Heart Foundation youth embraced our motto of Play, Learn, Serve and Share today. Together we had a great day of service learning at the USFWS South Bay Wildlife Refuge. Thank you everyone for your strong character, determination and positives attitudes!!”
The group then made their way to Coronado Tidelands Park and everyone took to the opportunity to hit the water for an afternoon of team building. Paddle boarding on the bay and group kayaking provide high quality team building. The ability to develop methods of communication and problem solving is highly valued in today’s competitive work environment. Keeping team members focused on the learning process and encouraging team development are crucial components of any successful organization.
by April | Volunteerism
It was volunteer day at Sharia’s Closet whose goal is to alleviate clothing needs in San Diego County, seeking to fulfill their mission of providing free clothing to people in need. What a turn out with over 50 volunteers showing up to help carry out their mission. Volunteers are the backbone of Sharia’s Closet. We could never achieve what we do without the unfaltering commitment of time, support, skills, creativity and knowledge generously shared by so many.
Volunteering provides many benefits to both mental and physical health.
- Volunteering increases self-confidence. Volunteering can provide a healthy boost to your self-confidence, self-esteem, and life satisfaction. You are doing good for others and the community, which provides a natural sense of accomplishment. Your role as a volunteer can also give you a sense of pride and identity. And the better you feel about yourself, the more likely you are to have a positive view of your life and future goals.
- Volunteering provides a sense of purpose. One can find new meaning and purpose in their lives by helping others. Whatever your age or life situation, volunteering can help take your mind off your own worries, keep you mentally stimulated, and add more zest to your life.
- Volunteering combats depression. A key risk factor for depression is social isolation. Volunteering keeps you in regular contact with others and helps you develop a solid support system, which in turn protects you against stress and depression when you’re going through challenging times. Working with others has been shown to improve mood and reduce stress and anxiety.
Sharia’s Closet clothing room provides for the needs of families as well as many homeless and destitute people in our area. When people come to their programs they offer them a clean change of clothing. Most needs are: Jeans, sweaters, underwear, shoes, warm coats and business attire for those reentering the workforce. If you are considering a food or clothing drive at your congregation, organization, workplace or school, please let us know. They will work with you to launch a successful drive that will bless those we serve.
Lastly, Mrs. Linton (Sharia’s Closet Founder) remarked “Thank you to each and every one of you. The impact of your hard work is felt by the children and families we are able to help. Our success is your success. We can’t thank you enough for your time spent with us today. I want to say thanks to Tracy Morris and The Blue Heart Foundation for having a big part in today’s Volunteer day.We will be helping to sort and fold clothes for people in need and any other help requested”
by April | Education
Saturday, March 11th, 2017 at the Oceanside Boys and Girls Club the young men from the Blue Heart Foundation’s Mentoring Program had the opportunity to participate in the 20th Annual Youth Symposium “YOUTH INVESTMENT: BUILDING A FUTURE FOR IMPACTFUL LEADERS”.
Thanks goes out to the ladies of Beta Nu Sigma Alumnae, Delta Gamma and Tau Lambda Chapters of ΣΓΡ Sorority Inc. whom presented this event focused on the importance of building leaders in our community. The belief is that these types of impactful forums will make impact and prepare the youth in San Diego County for future opportunities as well as making healthy choices.
Youth Symposiums create an environment for youth to come together and develop positive relationships with their peers, gain insight to professional and academic possibilities, and to build a strong network. These events are healthy, safe and positive recreational opportunities. Youth will leave with a sense of confidence, a forward-thinking frame of mind and new connects with peers, professionals, schools, employers and mentors; that they may have never connected with before.
All San Diego middle school and high school students were invited to attend this informative Youth Symposium which had workshops on what it takes to get to college, the importance of credit, a STEM workshop and healthy decision making.
As Blue Heart graduated their second class of seniors the feel was that one that created a sense of celebration as well as community. These young men are the driving force for many successful community clean-ups, programs and events. Blue Heart feels it’s very important to acknowledge these young men for their accomplishments. Cassandra Irving exclaimed “Our son has had the wonderful opportunity to be part of such a great experience, The Blue Heart Foundation Inc., has given him various opportunities to better himself, and in doing so has extended his perceptions of how much he can impact others as well as himself, by showing compassion for others’ lives, and experiences. He has always had words of encouragement to share with others, but his participation with Blue Heart has allowed actions as well.”
As the awards portion of the event began with the recognition from: – Ashley Campbell – Community Aide to Susan Davis, U.S. Representative for California’s 53rd congressional District – Stephanie R. Allen – Assistant to U.S. Representative for California’s 51st congressional district Juan Vargas and our great friend – Mathew Gordon – Community Representative for San Diego City Council President Myrtle Cole Mathew’s beautifully compelling presentation filled the room with appreciation and love.
Now we get to signing day … Where will the seniors be taking the next step in their academic journey? First was Dylon Renee Irving who committed to Morehouse College followed by Quincy Ferebee (Southwestern College) whom stated “When Tracy trusted me, I has no choice but to give 110 %. Next was Shamari Linton (CSU San Marcos) followed by Kai Miller (CSU San Marcos), Julien Juju Bean Moore (Fullerton College and concluding with Xavier Tillis (CSU San Marcos) whom said “I’m not done with Blue Heart and going to come back to mentor” I’m proud to be a member of The Blue Heart Foundation.” For more on The Blue Heart Foundation visit their website at theblueheartfoundation.org
