There are numerous
reasons why I established D.R.E.A.M.S. I wanted to
make society a better place. I wanted to help the younger generations
succeed in life and achieve their goals. I wanted to let them know
that there are some people in the world that actually care about
them. I wanted them to take an active role in improving the community
in which they lived. I wanted them to see that it is possible to
make a difference.
Several people come into our lives, but only a few get the chance
to make lasting impressions. I truly believe that I was very fortunate
to meet certain individuals that have had a significant impact on
my life in so many different ways. I was motivated to do something
to improve society by my parents, my late grandfather, Morris Koretz,
Lloyd Gold, Derek Gordon, and my love for children.
My mother and father are very special to me, as other people's parents
are so dear to them. My mom always put everyone's needs before hers.
I know that she would give up everything for her family. I know
this because she has proven this to me time and time again. My father
has taught me that if a person believes strongly enough in something
-- anything, no matter how big of a fight you are up against, stick
to your beliefs. He has shown me just how true the following quote
is… "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed
people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever
has."
My grandfather was a very giving man. He took an active role in
numerous charitable organizations throughout his lifetime. He always
made sure that people in need were taken care of. He not only volunteered
countless hours of his time, but he did it with such a passion.
It wasn't enough for him to just donate clothes to the Salvation
Army. He would put a dollar or two inside each article of clothing.
His explanation was that the people that receive the clothes need
the money more than he does. Through his actions, I learned that
when you give of yourself, you receive more than you give.
Lloyd Gold was an incredible person. Not only was he one of my best
friend's fathers, but he taught me one of the most important lessons
I have or will ever learn. He would always tell me to "D…T…R…T…"
or "Do The Right Thing!" Despite the simplicity
of such a statement, I learned that there lies a deeper meaning
in his infamous words. It was up to me to make my own decisions
along the pathway of life, but as I make those decisions, I would
be responsible for all of my actions. While it is very easy to make
quick decisions in the heat of the moment, it is crucial to think
things through before jumping the gun. Because of these words, I
have and continue to instill this sense of individual responsibility
in every one of my students. Lloyd's legacy continues to live inside
of each of these children as they go through life and decide for
themselves to "D…T…R…T…"
Derek Gordon has also had a profound effect on my life. He was one
of my closest and dearest childhood friends. He showed me the importance
of education. From the early grades through high school and college,
Derek continuously finished at the very top of his class. He went
above and beyond what was asked of him by his teachers. He realized
at a very early age the value of a good education. This may seem
like a very basic lesson, but it wasn't until my last year in college
that I truly understood this concept. Sure, anyone can get by with
a minimal effort as long as they paid their tuition and passed their
classes. But it isn't until a person realizes that the desire for
learning should come from within. A person should want to learn
about a certain subject because it interests them, not because it
will be on the final exam.
Finally, my love for children has created this wild fire inside
of me. It is ignited by my desire to help as many children as possible.
So many children grow up in broken homes, never getting the opportunity
to meet one of their parents. They go to bed hungry, abused, have
very little clothing, or on the streets. Some of them do not get
the opportunity to receive an education because they are forced
to drop out of school to help support their family. Whether it is
providing a scholarship so they can further their education, giving
them advice on how to survive life's many twists and turns, or by
simply being a role model, I want to help create a better future
for them. I realize that D.R.E.A.M.S. won't be able
to reach each and every child that needs help. But I also know that
we are trying, and we hopefully will have a positive impact on many
of their lives.
--Justin Koretz
THANK
YOU TO ALL WHO GIVEN SUPPORT
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