"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!
Kelsey McFadden
"I always want to be there for someone if they ever need it."My name is Kelsey McFadden and I am a junior at Saratoga Springs High School. I have played on the girls’ soccer, basketball, and tennis teams. I am also a member of the Unified Basketball team and Best Buddies program.
How did you meet Coach Rich Johns?
I met Coach Johns at a one of his events at Maple Avenue Middle School when I was in 8th grade. I was truly touched by the message he spreads and was interested in getting to know him more. Over the years I have developed a relationship with him and have come to realize he is an amazing person and we need more people like him in this world to spread positivity.
How did you hear about Act With Respect Always?
I learned about Act With Respect Always from seeing posters around town and recognizing many people wearing bracelets and t-shirts. After attending his event I really understood what his program was about and I was very interested in having more conversations with him to hear all of his stories.
How has the Act With Respect Alway mission affected you personally?
Act With Respect Always has affected me personally in many ways. It has allowed me to see past the 1% and realize that there are many great people out there if you notice the 99%. Because of this program I have formed friendships with people I never thought I would have. It has also allowed me to be more positive every day. A few weeks ago, coach attended a girls’ varsity tennis practice. At the end of practice, he sat us down and talked to us about having a choice when you wake up every morning; you can decide how that day is going to go based on your attitude.
Please share with us how you have, or will in the future “Pay it Forward”
I have payed forward AWRA over the past couple of years by volunteering at the Home of the Good Shepard and preparing meals at the homeless shelter this winter. I will continue to pay it forward every day. I wear my bracelet for a reminder when I am in the halls at school or in public. You never know what the people around you are going through. I always want to be there for someone if they ever need it.
How would you describe the Act With Respect Always mission to others?
The Act With Respect Always mission is life changing. It teaches you to better yourself while lifting up those around you. It is challenging, it is motivating and it is the goodness the world needs to see. This program builds character and opens up new opportunities to get to know the 99% in people.
Would you recommend Rich to speak about Respect to others?
I would recommend Coach Johns to anyone. Everyone deserves to hear his message. There is always something to learn from each of his stories and I truly hope everyone gets the opportunity to meet Coach. He is inspirational and passionate about what he does and I will look up to him for the rest of my life.