Marlee Maynard

I didn’t think a summer camp could make a difference in my life; I was wrong.

I attended my first iBELIEVE workshop after my freshman year of high school. Going into the camp I assumed I would learn something new, but I certainly didn’t think I would walk out on the last day with a new mindset and relationships. Not only did I learn hands-on 21st century leadership skills, but I was connected with a network of people who were striving to change the world. Not just that, but they were actually doing it.

The biggest lesson I learned while attending, staffing and interning at the iBELIEVE Foundation was that it doesn’t take an army to make a difference - in fact it just takes one person. By making a positive impact on one person every day forever I have the ability to change the world. Practically, the iBELIEVE Foundation gave me a plethora of opportunities to aggrandize skills I learned at my first workshop. If it wasn’t for my connection through this foundation I would have never gained experience in networking, public speaking or team building before stepping foot on a college campus.

I am proud to be Appalachian, but I am not naïve to the truth that education in Appalachian regions matches the standard of other areas. That being said, the iBELIEVE Foundation filled the gap for me. The experiences I lacked from my education and needed for my future were filled by these leadership workshops. Since my time with iBELIEVE, I am only one semester away from completing my bachelors degree and entering the workforce as a female who is highly skilled in leadership and communication. I attribute those skills to my time with iBELIEVE. Moreover, I seek to serve and give back to my community in Appalachia because I know the importance of giving back to those who have given so much to me. I would also encourage you to believe that although you may not be able to change the world, you can change the world for one person. Commit to that practice!

If you are on the fence of donating to this foundation, or if you would like practical examples of how a summer camp can change a life, I would love to talk with you.