Each day we shoot a camera, Eric and I know we are very fortunate to have the opportunity to not only do what we love to do, but to take care of our clients in a way that is meaningful and real. We appreciate all who walk through our door. Today, we had the privilege of giving back to our community in a way that makes us feel great!
United Way of Siouxland held its annual Women’s Power Lunch, with a special guest speaker today. This luncheon, partnered with the Waitt Family Foundation, financially assists single moms, and now dads, with higher education and empowers the recipient to change the circumstances of their lives.
Speaking this year was Mary Lou Retton, 1984 Olympic Gold Medalist in gymnastics, winner of three American Cups and many other achievements, spoke to a crowded Convention Center about challenges, courage and opportunity. The youngest of five, Mary Lou told us she loved to “bounce” around as a child and at seven she found that there was a sporting event that actually encouraged it and it had a name, gymnastics. She took lessons, worked hard and persevered. Through dedication and determination, she excelled. One day, while at a gymnastics meet, Bela Karolyi, former coach of famed Nadia Comăneci , spotted her and asked her to train with him. She was 14. She also knew it was an opportunity she could not pass up even though it meant great challenge and sacrifice. Her path to the Olympics was not a straight shot or easy but it was an adventure that made her the champion of a generation. Mary Lou Retton is the only American to date to ever when the All Around Gold Medal in woman’s gymnastics.
Before giving her speech, Mary Lou visited with VIP ticket holders. We have had the remarkable experience of participating in this event by taking group portraits of the ladies attending with the celebrity guest. Mary Lou Retton was charming and delightful. The attendees, committee members and staff of the United Way Siouxland were awesome as always, making our experience relaxed and enjoyable.
Volunteering for this event truly gives us an opportunity to help in a very small way. After taking the portrait, each participant receives a 5x7 enlargement with our compliments. We, on the other hand, not only meet celebrities, and the many awesome women in our community, we get to help give back to our Siouxland community that has embraced us so well.
This is an image of Mary Lou having fun with some of the participants. Women know how to party and it starts with wearing a kickin' set of heel but the real fun starts when you take them off!
