This time of year always reminds me how small gestures can make the biggest difference. Today, I want to share a story that proves just that.
It started with a plan to bring holiday cheer to three kids in need—but it quickly turned into something much bigger.
Before We Dive In…
I wanted to let you know I recently recorded a live podcast episode. It's called Becoming a Health Coach: Entrepreneurial Tips & Lessons I Wish I Knew. You can listen or watch it right after this quick email and video I have for you today.
The Plan: Giving Back to My Old School
Last week, I contacted my old elementary school and connected with one of my favorite teachers, Mr. O'Donnell. I asked him to find three kids who might not have a Christmas this year because of financial hardships or personal challenges at home.
The plan was to surprise them with Christmas gifts they didn’t expect.
However, I faced a challenge—I didn’t want anyone to feel left out, singled out, or uncomfortable. So, I came up with an idea—a raffle for the entire eighth grade, where each student could write down three things they wished for this Christmas.
This way, the three kids we chose wouldn’t feel different, embarrassed, or put on the spot.
And Then... a Problem We Didn’t Expect
When we got the raffle entries back, we noticed 14 other kids—not part of the original three—were asking for things like:
Socks
Hoodies
A chessboard
Perfume spray
Domino’s gift cards
These weren’t extravagant requests—just basic needs.
I had two choices—ignore the list and stick to the plan or find a way to help them all.
There was no way I could ignore their needs, so I made it happen.
I attached the video to this email for you to watch. I hope it brings you joy and inspiration this holiday season.
P.S. If you haven’t already, you can pre-order my book, "The You You Never Knew," as a gift for yourself or a loved one. You can do so by clicking this link.
Here’s to making this holiday season GREAT for you and those around you!
BeGreatWithNate
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