Making A Difference

We live in a world of extremes, people think everything must be done big and that bigger is better! But, this week I was reminded how the smallest acts of kindness are the ones that make the biggest impact.

I was invited to a local middle school this Tuesday, to be part of a school assembly. They gave me the basic information, but I had no idea what I was heading into. And I was in awe. In awe of these incredible students who took an assignment and made it into a community impact. Their assignment: Pick a non-profit, research it and prepare a board to present it to others at their annual Make A Difference Fair. What they actually did: Raise over $7,000 for over 50 area non-profits! On top of that they learned, that making a difference in your community starts with a small idea and a big heart!

These young students truly made a difference. It wasn’t about their donation, although it was generous and we appreciate it so much, it was about the lesson they learned and the lessons they taught others. They learned that everyone can do the small things that it takes to change the world, one person at a time we can make a difference. These students taught us that as well, by being in the community, we are making a difference in the fight against drunk driving, one person at a time. How do we know that? Because there are students like these out there believing in the work we do and educating others on our mission. Together, we are all making a difference.

Today, we thank these young students and their teachers. We hope you know just how much your donation meant to us, and even more, we hope you know that you helped change the world.

Bed, Bath and Breathalyzers?

The other day I was looking through the ads that come to my house tucked neatly in the Sunday paper, when I noticed something I didn’t expect to see. Most times there are sales on everything from toilet paper to televisions, but when I cracked open one ad I saw an on sale at-home breathalyzer. Now, I knew that these were around, I have seen them in television advertisements and online, but I did not realize that I could purchase one right down the street at any number of big box stores.

Breathalyzers are an invaluable tool in the fight against drunk driving, the ones that law enforcement use every day both on the street and in the station. The ones they use are highly sensitive, calibrated instruments that were designed to be accurate. They are far more advanced than the ones you and I can buy at the store.

I am not saying that these store bought breathalyzers don’t have their place, it is just not as a tool to stop drinking and driving. If you want to purchase one to use for entertainment purposes, have fun! Might even generate some good conversation. Most of these are even labeled for entertainment purposes only. But, I am afraid a lot of people may see these and think that they are something they can use to determine their if they should drive home after a night of drinking.

So, this weekend, as you are planning your St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, remember that breathalyzer you bought in the as seen on tv section is not accurate for determining your ability to drive after drinking! Do you really want to risk your life to an item that is sitting in the sale bin. Make the call before you have your first drink to have a sober designated driver.