“Make some change with Penny!” I declare to the courtyard, proudly holding my campaign poster and a bag full of backpack tags. Although my eager freshman self had little idea of what “change” I was promising to make, this catchy tagline has fulfilled its meaning tenfold throughout my four years on Student Council. As the last week of my involvement in Enloe Charity Ball comes to a close, I reflect on all the change that I have not only sparked but also experienced as a part of this extraordinary organization.
From afar, Charity Ball is a whirlwind of events leading up to the big dance that benefits a select local nonprofit. Enloe halls are buzzing with excitement about dates and dresses through December. However, Student Council has served as my microscope into the detail, passion, and collaboration involved in pulling it all together. In my past four years on council, I have had the privilege of observing and admiring all the effort that goes into Enloe Charity Ball, led by excellent student leaders and ignited by a drive to serve the community and one lucky and worthy organization, but I’ve also taken part in it. Contributed to it. Immersed myself in it. I am amazed by the dedication put into each physical publicity banner, each dollar earned by caroling, and each email sent to possible donors, among many more details. This eye-opening insight has inspired a greater appreciation for the opportunity to be “alive with purpose.”
During my time at Enloe, ECB has raised more than half a million dollars and evolved tremendously. I dwell on sweeping leaves at Haven House when we raised $165K in 2021, and fixing scooters at Neighbor to Neighbor when we raised $180K last year. I have grown as a leader and a person alongside this organization: from a shy poster-maker, to a stressed Clubs and Orgs officer, to a confident Big 5 member. Enloe Charity Ball has become an integral part of my high school identity and I ponder what my life will look like this time next year when donations, GreatCos, and kickball tournaments don’t occupy my mind. I do know, however, that I will continue to carry a drive to inspire change regardless of where I end up.
I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to fulfill Enloe Charity Ball’s purpose and mission these past few months, alongside my best friends, and honored to have “made some change” while at Enloe. I can’t wait to see our hard work, in partnership with CASA, culminate in the big reveal on December 14th!