BIG SPRING, TX — In uncertain times, a small teddy bear, coloring book, or blanket could bring a sense of security and reassurance. Families and children receiving services from Victim’s Services will have access to those small tokens of support thanks to the Leadership Big Spring Class efforts and community support.
“This time around, we are a smaller class compared to some of the previous Leadership Big Spring classes. We are also a class made up of all women,” Brenda Madore, Leadership Big Spring #40 member, said. “We wanted to do a project that we knew we could complete on time, and one that would make a positive impact on the community.”
Madore added, “Many of us are mothers; we have a lot of children in our lives; this is something that touched our hearts, especially when we found out they were in need of toys. This was a way we could provide a little bit of comfort in those tough situations.”
After hearing of the need, members of the Leadership class put their skills together and organized a two-week toy drive. Several drop off locations were designated throughout the community and the call was sent out. Local businesses, families and other community organizations made donations to the project and this past week, Victim’s Services was presented with the donations.
“We are so appreciative of this. We were expecting a donation, but we were not expecting a donation this big. We are so grateful for this,” Lynn Creswell, Victim’s Services representative, said.
Members of the Leadership Big Spring Class #40 include: Angela Brown with City of Big Spring, Michelle Hawkins with State National Bank, Brenda Madore with Howard College, Erica Marquez with Bulldog Steel, Samantha Rodriquez with SMMC, and Melissa Sanchez with Prosperity Bank. The class graduated on June 6. During a special dinner, certificates were presented to each member.
Perfect Attendance awards were presented to Michelle Hawkins and Erica Marquez.
“The leadership program taught me that there is more to Big Spring than chicken restaurants and boutiques. One just needs to go and volunteer or just sit in one of the Chambers meetings or any other meetings,” Erica Marquez, Leadership Big Spring class member, said.
The toy drive was the culminating project for the nine-month class. Each month the members learned about the different aspects of the Howard County community, including education, healthcare, economic development, humanitarian efforts, and historical aspects that built Big Spring and surrounding areas.
“Leadership is a unique opportunity to align the talents of others to accomplish tasks/goals, as well as having the ability to inspire others to be their best self,” Samantha Rodriguez, Leadership Big Spring Class #40 member, said.
As students learn about the ins and outs of Big Spring’s foundation, they are also able to network and build connections with other upcoming business leaders who are taking the class, have taken the class or are part of the tour sites.
“Leadership has given me a connection to my community and has inspired my outlook on the future by giving me core values I can build on,” Michelle Hawkins, Leadership Big Spring Class #40 member, said.
According to other members of the Leadership Class, the opportunity to see Big Spring through a new light was a welcomed experience. As Leadership Big Spring Member Angela Brown said, it was an opportunity to see just how special the community is.
“Leadership Big Spring is not just for those new to Big Spring, but for anyone who wants to know more about the community in which they live,” Debbye ValVerde, Big Spring Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, said.
Leadership Big Spring Class Member Melissa Sanchez added, “This course opened my eyes to many unknown resources available in our town. I am only sorry that it took me so long to participate.”
Leadership Big Spring is an opportunity for newcomers to learn about the community and discover ways to get engaged. Those who have lived in the area for a long time will also have an opportunity to see their community in a different light as they explore the changes that have taken place over the years.
The next Leadership Class program, Class #41, will begin in September. Applications are available at the Big Spring Chamber office or can be mailed, e-mailed or delivered. To find out more about Leadership Big Spring, contact the Big Spring Area Chamber of Commerce at 432-263-7641.
(Photos courtesy of Big Spring Area Chamber of Commerce)
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