The magic word - June 2024 newsletter
Want to know what the most incredible word in any language is?
It’s short, but it has real power. It can make dreams come true. It can inspire, encourage, and enable.
The word, in English at least, is “yes”. (Oui, si, ja, tak…you get the idea)
I spoke about this wonderful word recently at the Stittsville Volunteer Awards, honouring all those who say “yes” when our community needs help.
For word nerds, “yes” finds its origin in the Ye Olde English phrase “may it be so” – more formal and clunky, but carrying that same basic idea of agreement and moving something forward.
We’re often asked if we can help, and our answer is yes – even if it means getting to the precise work of figuring out exactly how it will all work later. As Richard Branson said, "If someone offers you an amazing opportunity and you are not sure you can do it, say yes. Then learn how to do it later."
Unlike Mr. Branson, however, we don’t have building a business empire in mind when we say yes. We do it because yes is a word of hope. It’s a word of relief for those burdened by uncertainties. It’s a word of affirmation.
Many times, we live our lives in fear of yes’ scary opposite: no. No, you can’t have that. No, that won’t work. No, you shouldn’t even try. For those we serve, sometimes they get pretty used to hearing no or at least expecting it.
Put yourself in their shoes for a moment. Imagine regularly hearing no, expecting no, and receiving…yes. Not just hearing “yes”, but actually receiving “yes”. Not a denial nor an empty promise, but your daily needs actually being met – whether food or shelter or a chance to retrain and prepare for a new career.
You play an important role in all of that work. Whether you’re volunteering, donating, or supporting us in whatever way you can, thank you for saying yes to us so we can say yes to them.
May it always be so.
Travis Blackmore
Founder and CEO, Lionhearts Inc.
Yes, We're Hiring!
We were fortunate to receive Canada Summer Jobs funding for a number of positions this summer. A few are still open in Kingston and Ottawa.
Know a student or recent graduate in Kingston or Ottawa who meets the criteria for the CSJ program? Send them our Careers site!
Yes, We're in the News Again!
Edible Ottawa recently shared a bit of our story and took some photos at our Ottawa warehouse. Thanks to Peter Simpson and Matthew Liteplo for the recent visit!
Learn more about our first rescue – 800 lbs of overripe strawberries – and where we are today.
Image via Monstera Production on Pexels