Another Miracle Request
By Mark Monchek − December 14, 2009
On December 15, 2004, I received an email much like this one inviting me to participate in an Extreme Home Makeover for a family of six children in the Bronx who had lost both of their parents in a tragic, severe case of domestic violence. Sheila Blackmond, a single grandmother, exercising great courage, took on the role of primary caregiver for her six grandchildren who were left behind. My first thought was “I don’t have the time. I’ve got way too much to do on my own.” I paused, and in that split second that I hope you will take, I knew I had to get involved. On December 19, a mere four days later, 40 people came together and did it- we gave the Blackmond family a newly remade home, raising $30,000 dollars in the process. We received national and local coverage from Channels 9 & 11, the Daily News and The New York Post and helped this family take a step back towards life.
When the cameras stop and everyone leaves, the challenges that remain are as critical ever. For the past two years, we have been working to create a support system for the family, the kind of support that every one of us needs to prosper. We invite you to join us in helping the Blackmond family to stay together and meet their basic family needs.
Our goal is to raise $50,000 in this next phase, to create a Miracle Support System. The money we raise will be used to confront the numerous challenges that a family who endures this kind of trauma must face each and every day. Our long term goal is to buy a home-business for Sheila that can provide residual income for her and her family. Our immediate goals are to provide:
- Computers, printers and technology- a computer is an essential tool, both for the business and for the kids to learn
- Time Off/A Vacation for Sheila- Childcare support to keep Sheila from burning out
- Books and Educational Tools- To nurture their minds and help them succeed in school
As Stephen Covey has said, “In the moment between stimulus and response, we are free to choose.” Please pause in this moment, and make a decision to help us create the kind of loving support we all need and deserve. When we bring this next miracle to the Blackmond family, we come one step closer to helping other families in need of a Miracle Support System.
Please do understand that there is no obligation or pressure; we know that everyone has their own commitments.
If you would like to contribute money, you may make a check payable to Sheila Blackmond and send to PerformXcellence 1120 Ave of the Americas, 4th Floor New York, NY 10036
If you would like to contribute a computer, printer or donate gifts, please call Mark at 212-420-0570 x302. We wish you the very best this holiday season.
Sincerely,
Mark Monchek and the PerformXcellence Team
