I have a holiday surprise for you. But first, I want to tell you a story…
On his 50th birthday, my dear friend Darryl Bundridge hosted a party for all his closest friends and family.
However, instead of showering him with gifts…
…he showered us with the Darryl Bundridge Awards.
The one. The only. Darryl Bundridge.
Throughout the night, pictures of friends would appear on a huge screen and Darryl would come to the mic and talk about that person. Then, he would invite the person up to the stage so they could receive their award.
The entire night was remarkable. A night that was supposed to celebrate him turned out to be a night about celebrating all of his friends.
With each award winner, we showered them with applause and laughter. Darryl showered them with love, praise, support and an award. Every award winner learned how much they impacted his life.
I met Darryl in Philadelphia in 1998 serving in AmeriCorps, helping kids in the Philadelphia school district.
For more than two decades, Darryl committed his work and life and service to young people around the city. He is a true champion, helping hundreds of young people move on to college and mentoring them throughout their lives.
Even in his current position as the Executive Director of City Year Philadelphia, his impact is felt every day.
But also, he did something for me I will never forget.
As a young father, I struggled getting my footing financially. I worked in small nonprofits, restaurants and anything where I could get a few extra dollars.
But it seemed like every month I would be a few dollars short when it came to paying rent. It was a tough time for me.
I was navigating being a young parent, scrambling for work and frankly felt kinda lost.
I came to a breaking point and had to ask Darryl to help me pay rent.
Without hesitation, Darryl went to the ATM, and handed me my rent for the month.
I will never forget what it meant to me to feel so much support from him. His belief in me was more than I had in myself at the time.
So, it is his birthday again this month.
In Darryl Bundridge’s honor, we will be giving away our newest training to anyone who needs it.
Just email me at brian@changeagentstraining.com and we will send you a link.
I only ask that you help us a little in return. This training is in draft mode and could use some feedback to make it better.
Your job, after taking the course, is to send me some feedback.
Everyone needs a little help in their lives from time to time.
Happy holidays friends.