"I Act With Respect"
A spotlight of inviduals from schools, communities, and from around the world who have taken it upon themselves to "pay it forward" as AWRA Ambassadors. They are vital role models in our society, we humbly thank you, and respect you!
Jake Rychter
"I am the Team Captain of the baseball team and a part of The National Honor Society"My name is Jake Rychter and I’m a senior at John Carroll Catholic High School in Fort Pierce, Florida. I have played boys basketball and been a four-year starter on the baseball team.
I am the Team Captain of the baseball team and a part of The National Honor Society. I hope to attend Florida Gulf Coast University in the fall.
How did you meet Coach Rich Johns?
I first met Coach Johns when he visited my elementary school as a guest speaker, in Port St. Lucie, to talk about Respect. His program was called Act With Respect Always and the students really enjoyed hearing his message.
How has the Act With Respect Always mission affected you personally?
One thing Coach stresses is the understanding that just one kind act can change a person’s life. To try to always think of others first, truly keeps my grounded. To be kind to others and never expect anything in return, is something I will always remember coach saying.
Please share with us how you have, or will in the future “Pay it Forward”
I have been very fortunate to learn the game of baseball from some wonderful coaches. They have given me the opportunity to follow my dream of playing in college. Always remembering the excitement in learning and playing the game is something I want young kids to remember. Not only teaching them how to play the game correctly, but play it with respect.
How would you describe the Act With Respect Always mission to others?
The Act With Respect Always mission really reminds everyone how important it is to respect and treat other people with kindness. It is so easy to look at each person that you see and try to understand that just a smile can change their day for the better. What a better world we would have if every one of us did this.
Would you recommend Rich to speak about Respect to others?
Yes! Coach Johns speaks about true kindness and understanding. He looks to find the best in everyone and lets others know that we are all worthy of respect.