It’s easy to get caught up in our own lives and forget how good it feels to help others. Giving back really does feel amazing.
Last Saturday, a small group of peers and I volunteered to teach under-privileged kids about digital marketing. We attempted to explain what a digital creative agency does, shared a bunch of really cool technology, and had a pizza party. But, the best part or the day came when we split into small groups and put the kids through a creative brainstorm.
We provided a fictional brief asking each group to create a digital campaign to spread the word about the new Nike Flyknit collection. It was like opening up a firehose of ideas. My group alone came up with everything from grandmas knitting flys on sweaters to people in flyknits surfing on the backs of skydivers. The imaginations were astounding and the ideas were limitless.
Admittedly, I was a little skeptical about hosting a bunch of awkward 12-18 year olds. However, the kids were smart, respectful and open minded. What started as a day dedicated to educating kids quickly turned into a day of educating myself. I learned more from those 6 hours than I could have even expected. It was an amazing day - something I hope to do it again very soon.
Nothing sets your priorities straight like helping a bunch of kids. Next time you get the opportunity to help someone unlock potential, accept it with open arms. I bet you’ll be surprised at how much you have to offer them and how much they have to offer you.
