To celebrate its 20th anniversary, Just Say YES provided a night of surprises for its “Celebration! A Night Of Hope And Connection” at the Omni Dallas Hotel on Thursday, April 28. From a name refreshening, a surprise award, swag bags for guests and a memorable talk by keynote speaker Mike Singletary, the night was a memory maker … and a money maker, thanks to a $50,000 surprise unlock match. Here’s a report from the field:
The Just Say YES “Celebration! A Night of Hope And Connection” was held at the Omni Dallas Hotel on the evening of Thursday, April 28. Over 370 attendees filled the ballroom in support of the organization’s mission that has provided countless positive youth development programs and resourced experiences to K-12th grade students, their parents, and educators.
An instant energy of excitement ignited when guests arrived. Perhaps it was because for many, this was their first in-person major event since the pandemic. However, it could have been the presence of smiling students from the Peer-to-Peer Mentoring program greeting you upon arrival. Or maybe it was because the entire event space was filled with vibrant lights and décor; what seemed to be a fresh new look for the organization. Guests were questioning, “Is this a nod to tonight’s major announcement?”
The answer: YES! During his address, Founder and President Dan Bailey revealed a new name and brand for the organization, as well as the launch of a new website. “New name; new look; even greater impact!” said Bailey. “I am thrilled to announce we are now ‘Youth Equipped to Succeed.’ Three years ago, Just Say YES merged with Aim for Success, another dynamic education nonprofit. As we integrated company cultures, offices, and operational processes, the natural next step was to undergo a rebrand that would honor both legacies. This is an energizing time for the organization! Our board and team are now unified and confidently operating under one brand and one mission.”
An Oprah moment soon-after commenced with Kool And The Gang’s “Celebration” playing through the loud-speakers, and every guest received a swag bag filled with new brand items.
The program took a heartfelt turn when it came time to honor this year’s award recipients. Avery Johnson presented the Coach Avery Johnson Youth Impact Award to Luann and Jorge Gutierrez, supporters of the mission for over 13 years.
Keith Davis also recognized the Keith Davis U-Turn Award recipient former Peer-to-Peer Mentoring student turned U.S. Navy SEAL Dre Hill. With Hill serving oversees in Japan, his mother, Alisha Tyler, accepted the award on his behalf, and received a standing ovation from the audience.
One final award was presented to Dan Bailey as a surprise. Youth Equipped To Succeed Chairman of the Board of Directors Jim Granberry commended Bailey for his 20-year commitment and dedication of growing value and vision in youth.
The audience also was given the opportunity to hear from two students impacted through the Peer-to-Peer Mentoring program. Board Member Brenda Teele and Director of Peer-to-Peer Mentoring Rayshannette Trotter guided a conversation on how the program has positively affected their lives. Chloe, a student mentor from Southwest High School in Fort Worth ISD, said of her experience, “Because of this program, I know that I am bold! I am a leader; I am confident in who I am; and I want to help others by being that big sister I never had.”
The final speaker of the night was one that left everyone speechless. You could hear a pen drop during the keynote address given by Pro Football Hall of Fame Player and former NFL Head Coach Mike Singletary. His voice echoed throughout the ballroom as he shared powerful stories of overcoming adversity from his childhood and throughout his football career.
Singletary said, “My mother always told me, ‘Son when you see an opportunity to do right, do it. When you see something wrong, get involved. Say something; do something; but whatever you do, don’t just watch it, and go home and talk about it.’”
“What am I saying?” Singletary asked the audience. “I’m saying that tonight, I am inspired by people like you who decided to make a difference; that decided to be the difference, by supporting this mission, instead of wondering what’s going to happen to the students or their families who don’t have access to programs like Youth Equipped to Succeed provides.”
This year’s Celebration is record-breaking! To continue the momentum, a $50,000 surprise unlock match has been pledged by an anonymous donor.
“We are $14,447 away from unlocking the $50,000 match,” said Bailey. “We need you to help us cross the finish line! Any amount you can contribute will go toward our mission of: Growing value and vision in youth by combating isolation and imparting hope.”
To donate, please visit www.justsayyes.org/donate, or contact Director of Development Sarah Conner at [email protected].
* Graphic/photo provided by YES - Youth Equipped To Succeed