I had the opportunity to have a table at our annual tradeshow/networking event at my church today. When they announced the event many weeks ago I did not even entertain the idea of having a table for The BeYoutiful Project. I figured it was only beneficial for people who had a business. A few friends thought it would be a good idea, so I took their advice. What did I have to lose but a few dollars and some time. Turns out it was a great idea!
I met a lot of wonderful people today and had the opportunity to talk to people I would not normally talk to and to share my vision. A good number of people said they would have something to donate. I also had the opportunity to speak to vendors present at the event to see if they would partner with us and donate their services or in-kind donations. I received a few favourable responses. I will definitely update the “Supporters” page on the website as it happens.
But the highlight for me today was when I spoke to a young lady about the project, about who I was catering to and why I was doing this and what I hoped to achieve. Towards the end of our conversation I asked her if she had any clothes from her closet that she wanted to donate. That is when she simply said “I’m actually a woman who would need the donations”. I was not expecting that at all. I asked her to share a bit of her story with me (which maybe I’ll share on another blog if I have her permission). She pointed out her coat that she had draped on her arm. Today was around -13 Celsius (9 degrees Fahrenheit) and that coat looked more like a spring coat. Definitely not good enough for this kind of Canadian weather. I wish I had a winter coat to give her right then and there. (hmmm… anyone have a new or near new winter coat they want to give me this week ?) Immediately, I said “I’m inviting you to the event”. Though I pretty much have my 20 referrals and that is the maximum capacity for the event (this time around) I didn’t even hesitate to extend the invitation to her (always room for one more) I have the utmost respect for her for having the courage to admit that she needed help. You know who you are and I thank you for taking a step towards my extended hand.