Speakers

High school students will compete for awards.  Each student will share their personal journey describing obstacle(s) they have overcome in their life and their plans and goals for the future. These young people have struggled with a physical disability, dysfunctional home, physical abuse, eating disorder, parents that have to keep at 2-3 jobs at a time to survive, homelessness, or another obstacle.  Many have grown up without the support and sustenance that every child deserves.  The students will share how they have worked through or beyond the obstacle(s); they will share what they are doing to make a successful life for themselves.  For some the Overcoming Obstacles Award (OOA) experience may be the first time in their lives where they have had a caring adult's support.

OOA is a symbol of what a local Rotary club can do.  We can find things of real value to our community and tailor what we do to the special needs of the people we serve.  At a time when the concept of community is strained in an America increasingly divided not just by race but also by class, it is a way to bridge a divide and demonstrate that kids who work hard and believe in themselves can still make it in America.