Take Stock in Children of Sarasota County

STEM SMART - The Sign of Thinks to Come

2012-02-17T15:12:00.000-05:00

"To make a big impact, you must take a big risk." - Salim Ismail

Today I was blown away. Not by the stormy weather Sarasota is having today, but by the astounding facts and knowledge Salim Ismail made during the Gulf Coast Community Foundation's Better Together luncheon at the Ritz-Carlton.

The invitation mentioned it would be "mind-expanding." I couldn't agree more.

You can't venture into a good magazine, newspaper or online news journal without finding information about STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics).

There was so much to takeaway from today's presentation, but I've chosen a few "mind-expanders" that I wanted to share with you.

"Mind- Expanders"

- In 2011, at Singularity University, they received 2,200 applications from 109 countries for their student graduate program. (A 10-week interdisciplinary program for top students and entrepreneurial leaders worldwide, aimed at solving some of our most pressing challenges) After more than 300 hours of lectures from 160 different professors, students are sent out on their own project. Would you like to know the guidelines?

3 weeks
Effect a billion people in 10 years
Global Issue

If I would have received those requirements - I would have probably said, "Sayonara!"

- One of the brilliant ideas that came from these students was Matternet. Matternet is a roadless production of carrying goods from one place to another via electric planes in Africa...check this video out.

- As if that wasn't enough awesomeness for a speech, how about a car that has driven 200,000 miles without any accidents?! Oh...and let me add one thing, no one is driving it either. It's called the Google Car*. And the state of Nevada has just made them legal on the road. (Woah...)

- Other Cool facts:

Did you know Algae can produce 10,000 gallons of fuel?
80% of Apples revenue comes from products that weren't around 5-years-ago.
We have no idea why we sleep for 1/3 of our lives.

What Next?

The core question on everyone's minds is: How to engage the next generation in science, technology, engineering and math. Easy. Give them the tools, let the creativity flourish in the classroom and watch the results.

Take Stock in Children is partnering with STEM and the Gulf Coast Community Foundation on something BIG. Announcement is soon to follow.

Salim Ismail's Bio:

Salim Ismail is a sought-after speaker, strategist and entrepreneur based in Silicon Valley. He travels extensively addressing topics including breakthrough technologies and their impact on a variety of industries.

Salim spent the last three years building Singularity University as its founding Executive Director and current Global Ambassador. SU is based at NASA Ames and is training a new generation of leaders to manage exponentially growing technologies. Before that he built and ran Brickhouse, Yahoo’s internal incubator. His last company, Angstro, was sold to Google in August 2010. He has founded or operated seven early-stage companies including PubSub Concepts, which laid some of the foundation for the real-time web. Salim also serves on the board of Breakthrough, a global human rights organization.

* Foul Language, please advise.

- Dana Bakich
@TSIChildrenSRQ
@dbakich17

Article from the Herald Tribune

2012-02-07T16:48:00.000-05:00

Our Contract Signing touched our hearts. And now Sarasota can read about it too. :)

2/7/12 TSIC Herald Tribune Article

2011-2012 Contract Signing

2012-02-01T14:43:00.000-05:00

What a wonderful and moving evening!

It was great to see all of our incoming students accepting their responsibility of maintaining a 2.5 GPA, staying crime and drug free and meeting with their assigned mentor weekly.

I believe one highlight of the night was seeing the emotion on T.J. Mill's family as Lisa Bechtold, Take Stock in Children executive director announced all 14 of our Emma E. Booker students would be receiving the T.J. Mills Memorial Scholarship. The testimonies from T.J.'s mentor, Eric Dunn and childhood friend, Terrance Gillam brought tears to many eyes.

Another TSIC first was the tradition of signing a class pledge. After the students received their certificates, they all agreed to sign a pledge in honor of the three main principles of Take Stock in Children. This pledge will be hung in the TSIC office and presented again at Celebration of Hope when the students graduate from high school.

View 2011-2012 Contract Signing Photos

Flash Mob Continues...

2012-01-26T09:51:00.000-05:00

Do you remember our Flash Mob in August at the Van Wezel Friday Fest?

It has done more brand awareness for Take Stock then we could have ever imagined!

Check out the series of events since:

1. TSIC was asked by the Cat Depot to perform at their event in October. (Unfortunately we were just too busy at that time to participate)

2. In December, TSIC joined the Observer and performed our Flash Mob with numerous students and supporters at the Sarasota Christmas Parade.

3. Just this past month, I received a phone call from the Non-Profit Times in New Jersey about our Flash Mob!!

4. AND now we've been asked to do our Flash Mob for a wedding on Anna Maria Island in June. (Thoughts!?)

WOW!

* To join us for our next flash mob, please click HERE.

A little bit of wine and go-karts?

2012-01-25T15:31:00.000-05:00

Last night, Take Stock doubled up on South and North county events!

Stephanie and I headed out to Livingston's Amusement Center for our Mentor & Mentee Mixer.

The evening started with some fun "get-to-know-you" games that quickly caused an abundance of laughter between the students and mentors. After the students received their game cards - they were off! The boys ran right to the Go-Kart line and had a blast competing against their mentors. I had the privilege of attempting DDR (Dance Dance Revolution) with Le'Asia McNeal.

During our raffle drawing we gave away a $50 gift certificate to A. Parker's Books! Thank you A. Parker's Books for instilling the need to read in our youth.

I loved seeing the interaction between the mentors and mentees. We are so thankful for our mentors! Stay tuned for our next event. :)

Down in Venice, Lisa and Candice made their way to La Dolce Vita. This fabulous wine bar was kind enough to host a wine tasting for TSIC supporters. South Sarasota is often a place we neglect so it was great to have a presence there. Thank you to our Venice crew! We will see you all again soon.

- Dana Bakich

Follow me @TSIChildrenSRQ

dana@takestocksarasota.org

CAR TAGGING WINNERS

2012-01-24T09:27:00.000-05:00

We love the creativity that everyone put into our CAR TAGGING CONTEST. Our Top 3 winners are:

1st Place: Isaiah Muhammad - We really liked the originality and extra effort with the clown on top! Great Job!

2nd Place: Kevin Angell - Mentor on Board! Ah, this was awesome! We love seeing our mentors so proud of what they do with TSIC.

3rd Place: Candice McLeod - We're all about stepping up the social media presence. This was a great car to spread awareness into the community!

Thank you to our sponsors!

Cruizers Express Car Wash

Stardust

Walmart

It's About Time We Posted!

2012-01-23T10:05:00.000-05:00

Since it's still January, it's still OK to say, "Happy New Year!"

TSIC has been moving full force into the New Year and can't wait to share all of our exciting events with YOU! Make sure to follow our Facebook page and tune into the emails that stroll into your inbox. They have very timely and important information.

This lovely Monday morning, the TSIC team will be selecting our Car Tagging Contest Winner. Check out these two great entries!

Check in later to see who won!

Jasmine Robinson

2011-12-16T13:35:00.000-05:00

We're 1/3 of the way to our goal for $30K in 30 Days!! The second student I want to introduce you to is my mentee, Jasmine Robinson. She is an outstanding girl and I'm so proud to be her Mentor.

Jasmine Robinson

Middle School: Booker Will Graduate: 2017

(Jasmine is the one with pigtails :D )

"When I grow up I want to be a nurse because I love taking care of people. My hopes and dreams are to go to college and have a successful life. "

This is Jasmine's first year in TSIC! She was one of the T.J. Mills Memorial Scholarship recipients from Emma E. Booker Elementary. She has been a trooper this year! From climbing the Alpine Tower at the YMCA to receiving outstanding first semester grades, Jasmine is excelling in 6th grade. She enjoys playing basketball in her free time and volunteers for many Take Stock events.

Favorite subjects: Reading

To donate to 30K in 30 Days, please click here.

2011-12-09T11:57:00.000-05:00

During our 30K in 30 Days Campaign, I want to introduce you to 10 of our amazing students. Some will be just starting in our program and others fabulous graduates. This afternoon, I will be sharing the story of one of our stellar TSIC Graduates.

Max Martinez

High School: Pineview Graduated: 2011 Attending: The University of Central Florida

"I realize that, as part of both the local and global community, I owe my commitment in taking every opportunity of self-improvement as a blessing aimed at providing me with the tools to make this world more full of goodwill, judgement and strength in times of need."

Max entered TSIC in 2005 as a 6th grader at Pineview. Although Max faced financial difficulties at home, Max was always a leader and strong student in school. He always enjoyed volunteering at numerous events in the Sarasota Community and practicing his photography skills. We are so proud of Max for graduating this past May and he is thriving at the University of Central Florida. GO KNIGHTS!

Favorite subjects: Psychology, Chemistry and Photography

SRQ Community Involvement: Youth Representative on the board of Sarasota Sister Cities International, was an active member of CYD (Community Youth Development) and went through the STAR Leadership Program.

To donate to 30K in 30 Days, please click here.

30K in 30 Days!

2011-11-22T15:55:00.000-05:00

Get Ready..

12.2.11 - 12.31.11

A simple 'Thank You' goes a long way...

2011-11-14T15:52:00.000-05:00

We LOVE receiving cards like these in the office. :)

Thank you Connor!!

2011 Fall Festival

2011-11-08T16:16:00.000-05:00

We can't believe our Fall Festival has come and gone...Check out some highlights!

Chuck with Cawley Caricatures drawing our lovely board member, Renee Armbruster.

Face Painting !

One of our Relay Race teams - great job guys! :)

We also want to shout out a special thank you to our fabulous volunteers, All Faith's Food Bank, Cawley Caricatures, Booker High School and the Farm Bureau.

We ALL need some pampering....

2011-10-25T15:46:00.000-04:00

Join Take Stock in Children of Sarasota County at Simply Spoiled for a 'Night of Pampering' on Thursday, November 10 from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Cost: $15

What: Enjoy complimentary mini spa services, sip wine and enjoy tasty treats! Merchandise will also be 10% for any TSIC guest.

For information?

http://www.simplyspoiledboutique.com/

Emilio's Visit

2011-10-14T10:27:00.000-04:00

Lisa Bechtold, Emilio Alonso-Mendoza, Alyssa Peterson, Danielle Boyette and Dana Bakich.

Yesterday afternoon, Take Stock had a great visit with the new president of Take Stock in Children, Emilio Alonso-Mendoza.

Staff, student advocates and board members met Emilio for a delicious lunch at Libby's. (Thank you Steve!)

After lunch, we took Emilio to see one of our favorite schools - Booker Middle. We had invited numerous friends and partners of TSIC to meet our guest. It was great to see so many of our supporters present.

One quote from Emilio stuck with me throughout the presentation, "We are not a program, we are a movement."

Thank you to Boys & Girls Club, Girls, Inc., Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, USF, Take Stock in Children of Manatee County, Take Stock in Children of Lee County, Gulf Coast Latin Chamber of Commerce and all to attended.

- Dana

Take Stock President Comes to Visit!

2011-10-13T10:10:00.000-04:00

Take Stock in Children of Sarasota County is very fortunate to be on the radar of our new president, Emilio Alonso-Mendoza.

This is your opportunity to ask him questions! Please shoot us a message on Facebook or Twitter and we'll ask Emilio during our round table discussion.

Facebook: Search Take Stock in Children of Sarasota County

Twitter: TSIChildrenSRQ

3 DAYS LEFT TO VOTE!

2011-10-03T14:57:00.000-04:00

Right now, we need your help! Vote for TSIC on GOOD Maker's website, and we could win $500 to help recruit mentors. Take Stock is one of 1 of 79 projects featured nationwide.

Help spread the word about what Take Stock in Children does across the country!

Please click link below to vote. :)

http://makerchallenge.maker.good.is/projects/takestocksarasota

READY, SET, GO!

2011-09-27T12:47:00.000-04:00

Are you a runner, walker or just like to get up and be active?

Take Stock in Children of Sarasota County will be one of many programs across the state to present its inaugural “Strides For Education” 5K Walk/Run at 8 a.m. on Saturday, November 19 at State College of Florida Venice Campus as part of a statewide effort to raise college funds for Florida’s low-income and at-risk youth. Take Stock in Children’s “Strides For Education” 5K Walk/Runs will also take place simultaneously in Brevard, Broward, Collier, Escambia, Hendry, Immokalee, Lake, Lee, Miami-Dade, Nassau, Palm Beach, Pinellas, and Sumter counties.

“Take Stock in Children’s ‘Strides For Education’ 5K is the perfect way to involve the local community in our efforts and help raise funding for our scholars who desire to earn a postsecondary education,” says Lisa Bechtold, Executive Director at Take Stock in Children of Sarasota County. “Our goal is to continue growing our program each year so that we may support even more students along the path to success.”

Take Stock in Children’s “Strides For Education” 5K Walk/Run is open to all individuals, families, companies and local organizations, and will feature family-friendly activities, giveaways, and much more. Registration is $35 for adults and $10 for students, with all proceeds to benefit Take Stock in Children.

To learn how you can support Take Stock in Children of Sarasota County’s “Strides For Education” 5K Walk/Run as a participant, volunteer or sponsor, please call 941-358-4407 or visit give.takestockinchildren.org and click Sarasota County.

Without A Doubt

2011-09-19T12:35:00.000-04:00

Mentors are the heart and soul of TSIC. Mentors help to mold each individual child's life to help them become successful young adults.

Here is one outstanding mentor story:

"I am beginning my fourth year as a mentor to a student who attends Pine View. We started together when she was 12 and in 8th grade, and now she is almost 16 and a high school junior. At first she was shy with me, but as time has gone on, we have become very good friends. My student has a supportive family network, so I act as an additional adult friend.

We talk about her social activities, her school work, her family, her goals for the future, and just about any topic she wants to discuss. Usually we meet for 45 minutes every week. The experience is something I thoroughly enjoy, and I am having a real thrill watching this young woman grow up right before my eyes. We will be starting the college process this year and into 12th grade, and I hope to be able to help her with that, since I recently helped my own two children to choose colleges. With the scholarship that TSIC will provide my student, her future looks exceptionally bright."

Sally Gabriel, PhD, CN
Health Educator

9/11 We Will Never Forget

2011-09-11T16:20:00.001-04:00

The Sarasota Community remembers President George W. Bush reading to Emma Booker Elementary students that horrific morning of 9/11/01. This will always be a day to remember and honor those to gave their lives for America.

“Time is passing. Yet, for the United States of America, there will be no forgetting September the 11th. We will remember every rescuer who died in honor. We will remember every family that lives in grief. We will remember the fire and ash, the last phone calls, the funerals of the children. “
- President George W. Bush, November 11, 2001