HBCU Fam, I wanted to take a moment to share a very personal story with you.
One particularly steamy summer day last year, I was driving through downtown Baltimore and saw four young boys, about 15 years old, standing on a street corner.
When I got closer, I saw that these young men had set up a little business selling sodas and ice water to thirsty drivers stuck in one of our infamous traffic jams.
I sat there for a moment, thinking and reflecting. I've seen a lot of stereotypes about what our youth are out on the corner doing, but very rarely any coverage of young Brothers like this. What would happen if more people knew about the work ethic and entrepreneurial drive our young people really have?
As I drove through the city, I saw at least three or four more corners with this same setup. I felt proud to see them there.
I bought a couple bottles that day, and for some reason, they were the best I've ever tasted. Maybe it was just the satisfaction of seeing some parent's hard work paying off.
We need to encourage young people who are doing positive things. I didn't have to start a program, volunteer all my free time away, or run for Congress.
I just did what was right. Instead of spending a few dollars at 7-Eleven, I spent them there on the corner.
This story is important to me, because I deal with aspiring entrepreneurs every day. My organization, The Baltimore Renaissance Foundation, seeks to turn young men and women like these into successful entrepreneurs, but it can't be done alone. Somewhere, there has to be a thirsty person who's willing to give us a shot. Is it you?
Take a second to visit our site and see what we're about. If you can help, with your time, funds, or talent, please do. If you can't help today, just tell a friend about us. It'll be the best decision you've made all day!
www.baltimorerenaissance.org
Posted By: Jon C.
Monday, May 5th 2008 at 3:13PM
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