Growing Up Together

Learning to Say Thank You

As part of life lessons, the teachers at Cal-SAFE guide the girls in many ways.  One important life lesson is to say thank you.  When they found out that I had a birthday coming up, they conspired with my husband and decide to plan a very big Thank You –  a surprise birthday party!!

 It all began with a little lie!  I was requested to attend one of the girls senior project presentation.  Of course I would be there!  I was so honored to be invited.

 It was a crazy morning at work and I momentarily thought of cancelling, but I could not let Carlita down.  Maria, one of the teachers, greeted me at the door and before I knew it all the girls were shouting “Surprise!” with my husband Tim capturing every tear with his camera!  My daughter Angela was there, too! I was so pleasantly shocked! 

The girls had prepared a beautiful buffet with home cooked food and lots of fried chicken.  There was a stack of cards and presents, and a beautiful cake.  I was speechless and beyond overwhelmed.  Throughout the party, many girls approached me to say thank you for a specific donation that really helped them.  They know that there are many people who help, I just delivery the donations. 

This little program has made such a huge impact on the girls.  Yes, they have received many things that have helped them cope and stay in school, but the biggest impact has been to know that there a people out there who really do care and really want them to succeed.