DinoMights

Phone Conversations

2011-09-16T09:05:00.000-07:00

It’s that time of year where DinoMights begins preparing for another season of hockey. In and amongst the chaos of organizing equipment, recruiting volunteers, and making the season schedule we try and call a handful of our kids to and see how their school year has started.

The calls don’t typically last long and consist mostly of the kids answering the following questions with one word responses: “How is school going?” “Do you like your teacher?” “What is your favorite subject right now?”

One phone call, however, turned into a phone call beyond just checking in.

On occasion we have students in DinoMights going to schools that are not the appropriate learning environment for them. We have one kid, in particular, that Scott and Eric worked with last year to help him find a more suitable high school that will help him be more successful with his education. So as Scott got on the phone and found out that he was not going to the school they helped him transfer to, I got to hear Scott’s half of the conversation. It’s conversations like these that make me proud to be a part of DinoMights.

Scott was angry and disappointed. It was an anger and disappointment, though, that came out of a genuine love for the kid. There was a clear passion in his voice that could only exist out of a deep sense of care for him. As Scott questioned him about his current situation, why he wasn’t going to the other school, and if he’d prefer to transfer, the DinoMight insisted that he will be able to succeed at the school he is at instead of transferring. At one point in the conversation I heard Scott say, “I will not sit back and watch you fall through the cracks. I am here for you, and I do believe you can succeed, so if this school is not helping you succeed I WILL intervene."

When Minneapolis has a 4year graduation rate of 49%, these issues become serious. DinoMights acknowledges the statistics, but we see our kids individually. They aren’t just statistics to us, we don’t just want them to “beat” the statistics. We want our kids to grow into adults and have the opportunities to be what they want to be “when they grow up.” We want our kids to make dreams for their lives and see that they are possible to achieve. We want our kids to know that they have choices. Choices to succeed, choices to learn, choices to become who they are.

In the words of E.E. Cummings, “It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are.” We want to help them gain that courage and support them in their journey. Scott’s conversation was an example of that.

Vlog 5!!

2011-09-08T11:23:00.002-07:00

Here is the link for the 5th video blog! Dinos went to camp :) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ehc1LsUphoA

Welcome Jensine!

2011-09-08T11:23:00.001-07:00

Hello! I’m a new face around here and I’d like to introduce myself. My name is Jensine Pulford and I am here as one of the new program assistants. I have just recently returned to Minneapolis after having spent the last five years teaching abroad in both Guatemala and Jalisco, Mexico. It was a difficult decision to move back, but it has been so much fun getting to know this awesome city all over again. I had forgotten how much I appreciate its unique and beautiful mix of people and culture. And, it is home of the DinoMights!!! I am excited to be here and I am thankful for this brilliant opportunity to be blessed by and to serve with the Dinos! I look forward to meet and build relationships with the Dino community, to be apart of its growth and to see the many ways it will grow me as well. Blessings to you,

Jensine

Trike-A-Thon Video!

2011-08-17T11:42:00.001-07:00

Here is the link to the youtube video for the trike race for those of you who have been eager to see it! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g4DFO6qLIYo

Making Friends

2011-07-20T10:02:00.000-07:00

Last week was DinoMights’ annual Power Camp, our week long academic camp focusing on nutrition. Personally, I find this week incredibly stressful and I will openly admit that I am far greater at playing games and being active with kids than sitting them down and having them read and write and listen. For this, I admire all teachers out there. However, though stressful, there were moments this week that were encouraging and uplifting. One story, in particular, I am eager to share with you all.

Giselle is one of our middle school girls. She joined DinoMights last year as a Polar. Her mom would drive her and her brother to and from practice so her interactions with other fellow DinoMights and coaches were at the ice rink. Every early Wednesday morning I would find her standing next to her mom and I would say, “Good morning Giselle! How are you?” Her answer was often mouthing, “Good.” There may have been noise that came out, but not audible to the human ear. See, Giselle is painstakingly shy. One time I was in her elementary school with Eric and saw her helping out her teacher and I yelled, “Hey Giselle!!” She looked at me with a blank face. I was almost worried I had the wrong girl and asked Eric, “That is Giselle, right??” It was, and I’m sure some people can relate to that level of shyness. So you can imagine how difficult it may be for her to make friends when saying “hello” and “good” are difficult.

So throughout the season we were all waiting to see which group of friends she would find her niche with. But it never really happened...until this week. This week I noticed after being teamed up with two other girls for camp, Guadalupe and Jennifer, that she began sitting with them before we started camp and at the gathering time when we ended. On the last day we went to a water park. Jennifer and Guadalupe were girls I coached last year, so they often came up with Giselle to chat with me… and believe it or not… Giselle was the most chatty. From not really knowing what her voice sounded like to having my ear talked off (GLADLY!) was more than a huge step. And right as we were leaving for the day Guadalupe put her arm around Giselle and told me, “I’m bringing Giselle to the water park on Sunday.”

Giselle found her niche. She found her voice. She found her comfort here at DinoMights. These are the stories we cherish. We aim for Social Excellence by fostering a safe environment to make friends. This is one of those success stories.

VIDEO BLOG 2!

2011-06-28T09:13:00.000-07:00

So that was quick, I know but here is the link to our 2nd Video Blog highlighting our day at the NHL clinic. It was kind of a big deal...http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9BvFpCbUPWY

Introduction to DinoMight VIDEO Blogs

2011-06-28T08:57:00.000-07:00

Here is the YouTube link for the very first VIDEO blog. Keep your eyes out for more to come in the near future! Yay Dinos! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iw232d678zk

NHL Draft Youth Clinic

2011-06-23T13:14:00.000-07:00

Today we were special guests at the NHL Draft ADM Clinic. Here are pictures of our interactions with Cal Clutterbuck and Brad Staubitz of the MN Wild, autographs, and smiles. Don't miss Coach Erin in a really blogable moment below!

A Carroll at Greg Carroll Learn 2 Skate

2011-05-24T09:32:00.000-07:00

Sometimes stuff happens in real life that is every bit as amazing as stuff that is made up.

Almost 4 years ago a tragedy occurred that now shapes our community here at DinoMights. Long time mites coach Greg Carroll passed away unexpectedly one morning. It was very sad for so many young DinoMights he had coached.

We officially named Learn 2 Skate after Greg to honor his legacy.

Greg's friends and family have been behind Greg Carroll Learn 2 Skate ever since. Some of his High School Classmates even hold a Golf Tournament to support Greg's legacy.

This year we have the most amazing and touching part of the story yet! Greg's brother, Dan, is now a DinoMights volunteer. He spent time tutoring a 2nd grader this winter and then became a lead coach at Greg Carroll Learn 2 Skate.

It was amazing to me to see how special it was to Dan to be a part of this effort in a very personal way. I can't step in his shoes and know what it was like for him to serve at the event named for his brother, but I am certain that it is part of that amazing web that God weaves to bring about things that give us pause to wonder.

Thanks To Learn 2 Skate Volunteers

2011-05-13T10:51:00.000-07:00

On Behalf of the 1st Grade Students at Green Central and Andersen Schools and the DinoMights staff . . .

Thank you for volunteering at Greg Carroll Learn 2 Skate.

You held us up . . .

Gave us something on which to lean . . .

Offered expert advice . . .

And became . . .

Our Friends!

Because of you we know we can do big things!

Thanks!

Thanks For Supporting Camp Scholarships!

2011-05-03T14:57:00.000-07:00

UPDATE:

As of 5/12/11 Camp Funds are up to $1955!

http://www.razoo.com/team/dinomights-camp

Dear Friends and Family,

Thanks so much for supporting DinoMights my race and efforts to raise camp scholarships! The race was on Saturday and I did indeed have enough donations to wear a full set of hockey equipment. It was cold and a bit rainy, which actually worked in my advantage since the equipment didn't make me hot until mile 5. The hardest thing was actually the shin guards. The breezers were quite comfortable. DinoMights got a lot of good attention on the race course as I explained exactly what I was doing in hockey gear at a road race.

My fundraising effort had 10 donors for a total of $925. I had a partner in this effort that raced in a snowsuit (He was very sweaty by the end). Together we raised $1,605, which can fully scholarship 5+ students to summer camp!

Our fundraiser was definitely fun, but most importantly it may actually change the lives of some urban young people that will have chances to canoe the Boundary Waters, learn about food and nutrition, go to a hockey clinic, ride a horse, swim in a lake, and hear about the great love of Jesus at DinoMights summer camping activities 2011!

Attached is a picture to prove we really did it (notice our race numbers, proving that we aren't just dressed up!). Again thanks so much. Please stay in touch. If you haven't had a chance, but still want to join our effort visit http://www.razoo.com/team/dinomights-camp.

Are We Crazy?

2011-05-02T12:44:00.001-07:00

Are we crazy? Maybe. Maybe we just have faith.

Last spring a few volunteers ran a race to raise camp funds. It was tough, because it was

rainy and cold. However, we actually raised over $3,000 doing that last year. So it was worth it,

and worth doing again this year; but with a semi-crazy twist.

One of the volunteers decided that just running the race wasn’t enough to get people to

give to his cause. So he said that he would add a layer of clothing for every gift to his online fund-

raiser page until he had a full snowsuit on in the race. His page was so popular for raising camp

funds that I decided to use his idea too. I am adding one piece of hockey equipment for every

donor. So far we are about half suited up each, and we’ve raised $700 between the two of us.

In a road race the right clothing is essential. You don’t want items that are bulky or create

uncomfortable friction. I’ve had some friction problems in the past. Trust me, it’s uncomfort-

able. “So why have I agreed to wear a jersey, shoulder pads, elbow pads, helmet, breezers, hockey

socks, and shin guards on a 6.1 mile run,” I think to myself, “Oh and by the way, the forecast is

calling for more rain.” I’m going to run in uncomfortable stuff and it will be raining. Am I crazy?

Why are we doing this?”

This might sound strange, but I think the answer is FAITH. You see summer camp is

really the place where DinoMights participants develop what we refer to in our mission statement

as Spiritual Excellence. For some of them it is the ﬁ rst time they hear that God loves them. It is

a place where they often begin a life long journey of faith.

In some cases the journey of urban life carries a lot of uncertainty. Some of our kids are

forced to move every few months, or change phone numbers. Schools close, parents get laid off,

and the roof leaks, because the landlord won’t ﬁ x it. (In fact, the roof will probably be leaking

during our run this Saturday). Their playground is an expanse of unfeeling cold hard concrete over

which they are dragged without having any control. Their journey’s can really be crazy.

I once heard an urban pastor say, “Faith is all we got in the city.”

Faith is all about seeing with your heart what you can’t see with your eyes. It’s what

makes the future things we’re hoping for real right now. It’s a journey to an unknown destination

that you believe is good, even though you’ve never been there before. That kind of sight and cer-

tainty is not always rational. With the obstacles some of our students face, having faith that their

lives can be anything other than chaos may seem a bit crazy. Isn’t it more likely that our kids will

fail? But faith demands that we refuse to accept that possibility. At DinoMights we hope for our

students to have lives that are not crazy. I’m not saying that we hope God is going to ﬁ x every

leaky roof, but I am saying that we hope for our students to be able to look to God when the roof

is leaking and know that God will guide them through it.

So if taking an urban young person out of the city for a week to play in the lush wood-

lands of Northern Wisconsin or the Boundary Waters will allow them to come home with faith;

with something that won’t change while everything around them is in constant ﬂ ux, then let’s do

it. Together let’s do even crazy things to support that journey of faith!

Please consider a ‘crazy’ donation to support ‘faith’ by sending a special gift for Camp

Scholarships.

WE LOVE CAMP!!!

Shunya and Wayne reading books at

Power Camp

Dino boys outside their cabin at Silver

Birch Ranch, with alumus and counselor,

Keenan

Success Stories: Levi

2011-04-15T07:02:00.000-07:00

"How bad can it get? He is a good reader. He is a smart and creative kid. What is going on? Have we not done enough for him?" These are the thoughts my wife and I had when we learned how poorly Levi was doing in school.

He failed at least half of his classes in a traditional high school. He was falling through the cracks and getting left behind. He failed Social Studies, math repeatedly, he even failed gym! What's worse is that it seemed like nobody noticed or cared. Nevermind that he failed first semester math, he was just automatically enrolled in second semester math. I don't know about you, but it seems pretty obvious that if you can't succeed in the first sem math you also will be unable to succeed in the second sem math.

Everyone we talked to at the school said, "Oh yeah, great kid. Never causes any problems. Doesn't do his work though."

We pressed him, invited him over to do homework, called him to remind him to do homework.

Nothing.

So we pressed the school, demanded that teachers communicate with us, demanded conferences with school staff.

Nothing.

So we pressed his parents. "He is not showing you any reason to believe that he will be successful at this school. He is going to be 21 year old before he graduates at this pace, and you will still be supporting him financially if there is not a change immediately," we argued.

"O.K. I'll do my work," Levi protested, "Just don't make me switch schools."

"It's too late for that. At this point even if you passed every class from here on out you will graduate 2 years late. Moreover, if you keep going the way you are you will complete 4 years of high school in 8 years."

Finally the parents understood. They made him switch into a charter school. The school is strong on Spanish language and Latino culture. It is also especially strong on the arts. It is a perfect fit.

Kari and I had to back off a bit when he made the change. He'd had enough of us hounding him to live up to his potential, and we could tell. We didn't know if we had done enough for him, but we had done all we could do.

He didn't immediately like it at his new school, which worried us a bit. However, reading between the lines we liked what we were hearing. "I hate it there," he'd say. "I don't talk to anyone, I just do my work. That's it." His tone was resentful.

"Good. That is what you are supposed to do."

"Those kids are uncool," he'd say.

"So what? Maybe you need to succeed in school more than you need to have friends at school."

"I'm just going to work hard, catch up then go back to my other school."

We wanted to respond to that with outrage, but the time for outrage had passed. Whatever motivates him at this point is good. Even if it is getting out of his new school. Most likely, we reasoned, once he tastes success, he will love it.

Sure enough, he was chosen to create a mural on the back wall of the school. He became a leader. His talent shone through. The last time I talked to him this is what he said, "I'm taking a college course this summer. Two weeks I get to live on campus and study. Oh and I'm not 100% sure yet, but I think I'm going to graduate on time next year."

That is what we live for at DinoMights. Trust me, it is uncomfortable to be lying in bed at night wondering about if we've done enough. Truthfully, sometimes it doesn't matter. Not every story turns out like this one. But, we know that kids like Levi are worth the sleepless nights, and we joyfully celebrate when they have this kind of success.

Happy Endings

2011-04-13T07:25:00.000-07:00

Last night was the last night for the 2010-2011 tutoring season. Many of the kids will now participate in our technology classes. In fact, we may have one of our biggest technology classes ever this year.

The party was tremendous fun. We had pizza, played board games, Mario Kart on the Wii, and the kids got fun prizes.

I went around and asked students to share something they have learned or remember from this year. Below are their quotes.

Eduardo, age 7, "I learned that hockey is cool."

Kevin, age 7, "I learned how to read in English, and I won a car." --When asked what he learned from his tutor.

Alex, age 6, "My favorite memory of hockey is doing the Superman." The "Superman" drill is when students extend their arms and slide on their bellies.

Larry, age 11, "I learned fractions." --When asked what he learned from his tutor.

Rafael, age 13, "Tweet, Tweet, Tweet." --When asked what he wanted to share on Twitter.

Francisco, age 12, "Getting my homework done on time." --When asked how his tutor helped him this year.

Edward, age 10, "I learned from my tutor that you always have to study hard and don't give up."

Sandy, age 16, "It was fabulous. I enjoyed coming every Tuesday and being with the kids." --On what it was like to be a tutor to a second grader this year.

Ericka, age 7, on her favorite book from tutoring, "Green Eggs and Ham in Spanish is Huevos Verdes con Jamon."

Success Stories: Frankie

2011-04-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I got to spend some time with Frankie at tutoring.

Frankie is one of those kids you can look at and see that DinoMights is making a difference. He would make a great comic book character. He is a good athlete with natural leadership skills. His talents could be used for either good or evil. And, there is a battle over whether or not his skills will be employed by the dark side or the light (sounds a little like star wars, and also I recall something from the bible about light).

Anyway, a year ago Frankie's tutor couldn't keep tutoring him. So we placed him with Coach Pete as his new tutor. A few weeks later Frankie told Pete that he didn't want him to be his tutor any more. Well, of course the forces of good had to step in and say, "Kids don't get to decide who their tutors are going to be. Your job is to come here and learn. We actually put a lot of thought into your tutor, and think that Pete and you will be great friends." His immediate reaction was to hang his head and mope.

A year later all Frakie talks about is, "Coach Pete this," and "Coach Pete that." Pete is a police officer and occasionally rolls by Frakie's house in his squad car to say, "Hey, you keepin' out of trouble?" And he is keeping out of trouble!

Pete couldn't make it yesterday, so I substitute tutored Frankie. We did some word lists. He's a third grader and got 100% of the fourth grade words correct. Then he got most of the 5th grade words too. I think the forces of good and light are winning in Frankie's life!

The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

Red Van Retirement?

2011-04-01T06:49:00.001-07:00

Since the end of the 2011 hockey season, I've had a chance to sit down with a very important member of the DinoMights family. He's been hauling kids around longer than any of us staff members, and really has been through it all with Hockey in the Hood. Our Red Van pauses to reflect on Dino Life, and his coming retirement.

Kids and hockey bags loaded into the Red Van

SH: Red, to say the least you have seen it all. Remind us how long you have been at it here.

RV: Well, I'm a 1996 Red Ford E350 15 Passenger Van. So I've been around since near the beginning of DinoMights. Why, some of the teenagers I drove to practices in the late nineties are in their late twenties now! Most of them have graduated high school and some of them are parents themselves!

SH: Wow, that is really something when you think about it that way. You are still chugging along though.

RV: That is right. In fact just this winter I transported DinoMights PeeWees, the District One Champions! It has been ten years since I chauffered the PeeWee Champs. I even drove them to the Hockey in the Hood Tournament all the way in Detroit, MI. You know, it never gets old.

SH: What never gets old?

RV: Well, what we are doing here at DinoMights never gets old. The smiles on the faces; stories the students tell in the back seat. Actually, inside me is probably one of the most important places for relationships at DinoMights. Also, I feel pretty important. Many parents can't regularly drive their daughters and sons to DinoMights. So without me many students wouldn't even be able to participate. They wouldn't build the relationships or create the stories.

SH: That is a great point. Without transportation we wouldn't be able to serve some of those same students you talked about who have grown up and graduated.

Now you have had a few recent surgeries. How is your health?

RV: Well, let me assure you I am still very safe. All my seat belts are in working order and I recently got new tires. But, the reality is I am getting older and I don't have a garage. At some point I'll have to train in a new van.

SH: Red, you have every driving record known to DinoMights: Most miles, Most Kids, Most hockey bags, Stinkiest hockey bags, etc. You are surely a first ballot hall of famer. Are you saying it is time to hang it up?

RV: Oh, right now the pieces are in place. As long as I can perform at a high level I have one goal, and that is to lead kids to Physical, Academic, Social and Spiritual Excellence. But 2011-2012 is likely to me my last hockey season. I'm not sure though.

SH: Truly you are the Brett Favre of the Dino Van world, and we hope that whoever follows in your footsteps, DinoMights will find a very capable replacement for you.

RV: I'm sure they will, and I'm sure that the community of DinoMights supporters will really get behind the effort! Thanks for giving me a chance to share.

SH: Thank you for your long and important service to DinoMights!

Red Van arriving home from camp

Meet Erin

2011-03-01T06:36:00.000-08:00

Hello DinoMights Followers! My name is Erin and I am a new, eager and excited, intern for DinoMights. I am a senior at the University of Minnesota and will be graduating this spring with a degree in Kinesiology. Majoring in kinesiology has provided a lot of insight for my coaching position during this season and for the DinoMights program in general.

Through my classes I have learned that the lowest represented social group in sports is female minorities (Asian being the least represented, then Latinos, then African Americans). I have also learned that adolescent girls in sports have a significantly better self-image and higher self-efficacy than those who do not play a sport. I was recently assigned to read a study that revealed that females who participated in regular physical activity improved their perceived body image without even changing their Body Mass Index. Just this last week my class discussed an article revealing that kids living in an urban environment are most influenced by peer support, among 8 other variables, to be physically active.

DinoMights addresses all of these issues. This year DinoMights made an effort to recruit more girls and expand the girls program; inviting them into a program that provides opportunities to set goals, be physically active, make friends, and naturally gain a healthier self-image and self-esteem. I was the lucky coach with the majority of these new girls, allowing me a unique opportunity to personally witness what the program means to them.

I witnessed girls go from hardly being able to stand on the ice at the beginning of the season to being able to hockey stop (with a common reaction of: “Erin, LOOK! I can STOP!”). I witnessed a GIRLS hockey team full of DIVERSITY playing on a SPORT team together against other teams with sportsmanship and positive attitudes. I witnessed girls committing to waking up early for practice and being physically active at a time most heads are still on their pillows. I witnessed girls disappointingly counting down the years until they can no longer be in DinoMights (they still have 8-9 years left!). I witnessed my player’s schoolteacher attending a game to videotape and cheer on her student. I witnessed girls beg to be dropped off last after games so they could continue having fun with their teammates and coaches in the van. I witnessed girls consoling their teammate after she was crying from the pain of her toes thawing out after an outside game.

I witnessed laughs, smiles, hugs, and high fives.

I witnessed goals being achieved, friendships being built, and confidence growing.

To these girls DinoMights makes a difference. Perhaps more than it realizes. This, among many other reasons, makes me so thankful to be a part of this program. I simply cannot think of any other organization I would rather be interning for.

Sincerely,

Erin Welch

DinoMights Intern

What Golfing has to do with a Happy Thanksgiving

2010-12-07T07:47:00.001-08:00

White Bear Lake High School Class of '77 Golf Outing

November 24, 2010, the day before Thanksgiving . . .

“Hi this is Scott. Just wondering if you are home. I have something to drop off for you.”

“Yes, we’re home,” said the boys mother, “Just knock, the doorbell doesn’t work.”

I hop in the car on a snowy Thanksgiving eve in Minneapolis. Just one more thing to do before a few days off. A volunteer came into the office earlier wanting to make sure that the family of the boy she tutors would have a great Thanksgiving. So she dropped off a gift certificate for a local restaurant that would feed his whole family. She wanted to make the gift anonymously so that she wouldn’t receive any credit or accolades for the gift. She wanted it to be a gift that was just kindness to a family at Thanksgiving time. No strings attached, no ulterior motive. So I brought the gift card over to the house on the night before Thanksgiving.

It turned out to be a lovely time of visiting with this boy’s family. We learned a good deal about each other. The boy’s mom said she was taking him out of school and looking for a new school. “They just don’t understand him because he has ADHD.” It was hard for her to make that decision for her son, but she felt it was the right thing. It was great to affirm the boy’s leadership qualities in front of his mom and brothers. Not everyone sees that, but we do, and his Tutor can really see it.

“So here’s why I’m here,” the mom gulps anticipating more bad news for her family, “A volunteer stopped by today and asked me to give this to your family. It’s just a gift from someone who thinks highly of your son.

“OH MY GOSH! NOBODY HAS EVER DONE ANYTHING LIKE THIS FOR ME BEFORE! NOBODY HAS EVER JUST GIVEN ME SOMETHING! I thought you were coming because he was going to be in trouble.” She was very THANKful at Thanksgiving time.

The legacy of doing things for people quietly; no strings attached; kindness for kindness sake actually goes way back at DinoMights. If you’ve been reading these letters for a while, you have heard about Greg Carroll. He was our mite coach that really epitomized that kind of kindness. When he passed away a few years ago we named our Learn 2 Skate, Greg Carroll Learn to Skate to honor Greg’s legacy of service.

Due to the efforts of Greg’s friends and family Greg Carroll Learn 2 Skate has tripled in size in the last three years. One such effort is the White Bear Lake High School Class of ‘77, of which Greg was a part. They get together to golf every fall and to raise money for Greg Carroll Learn 2 Skate. The boy in this story entered DinoMights as a direct result of the expansion of Greg Carroll Learn 2 Skate, which the Class of ‘77 golf outing is helping to provide. So in a round about way, and I’m sure this wasn’t on their mind at all, while they were shooting for par, the class of ‘77 golf outing helped connect a caring tutor to a family that really benefitted from a special boost on thanksgiving. They did it Greg’s way too. No strings attached, just kindness for kindness sake.

Consider joining DinoMights year end Fundraising team if you're interested in helping kids just like Greg! http://www.razoo.com/p/holiday-26-dinomights

Fundraiser Sponsors: The Kelly Phillips Foundation

2010-11-03T13:52:00.000-07:00

The Kelly Phillips Foundation is near and dear to our hearts here at DinoMights. Since we began our relationship two years ago, KPCF has engineered an equipment drive, sent numerous volunteers to Learn 2 Skate, and supported our fundraiser. Not to mention that Dan Phillips, of the Kelly Phillips Foundation is one of our tutors! So we are very thankful to once again have the Kelly Phillips Foundation supporting DinoMights.

The Kelly Phillips Foundation is dedicated to the legacy of an amazing young woman, Kelly Phillips. She lived her life by the values of Faith, Compassion, Service, and Academics.

Our students had the chance to learn about Kelly's life this summer at Impact Hockey Camp in Minnetonka. Here's what Hector and Francisco had to say,

"Coach EJ taught us about Kelly Phillips. She died at age 17, but helped a lot of people during her life. When kids from Edison lost their equipment in a fire, she raised money to help them. She had great leadership. She's also part of the reason we got to come to this camp. Thanks to Kelly."

We hope you will consider visiting their website to learn more.

Fundraiser Sponsors: NHL

2010-10-29T13:39:00.000-07:00

We are very thankful for this year's Annual Fundraiser Major Sponsor, The National Hockey League (NHL).

DinoMights has been an affiliate the NHL Hockey is for Everyone Initiative since 1996. Hockey is for Everyone provides support and unique programming to non-profit youth hockey organizations across North America, such as DinoMights, that are committed to offering children of all backgrounds opportunities to play hockey. The initiative is supported by NHL member clubs, players, NHL alumni, and fans. To date, Hockey is for Everyone has exposed close to 45,000 boys and girls to unique hockey experiences.

To celebrate this initiative, the National Hockey League hosts the annual Hockey is for Everyone Month in February. The league-wide initiative includes numerous activities to promote the diversity of the game that involve our clubs, players, alumni, fans, and grass-roots diversity programs, all with the goal of raising awareness and celebrating the growth of the game.

To learn more and see links to Hockey is for Everyone Videos please click here.

Fundraiser Sponsors: Imaging Path

2010-10-28T12:58:00.000-07:00

One reason why our Annual Fundraiser will be a success is the generosity of our corporate sponsors. So for the next few days, I'd like to introduce you to some of our sponsors. We really hope you will consider visiting their web sites, and that you will feel good about those organizations' contribution to the community through DinoMights.

This year's Presenting Sponsor is Imaging Path.

As the Presenting Sponsor, Imaging Path ensures that all the proceeds from our event go directly to DinoMights programming. That means that, thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, your gift does not go to pay for room rental or food at the DinoMights event. Instead, whatever you give will go right to things like ice time, books for tutoring, community service projects, or summer camp. So a VERY big thanks to Imaging Path, the 2010 Presenting Sponsor.

Big EVENT: First Day of Practice

2010-10-27T12:12:00.000-07:00

I recently called a new student to let him know that I would be coming to pick him up in the DinoMights van. He was so excited that he hung up on me.

Saturday was the first day of practice for the majority of our students. You really can never lose the joy of seeing wobbly little people just learning to skate. Mix the joy of something new with the excitement that hangs up on a caller in the middle of a phone conversation, and you definitely have a Big Event.

All fall, leading up to this day, we get phone calls in the office,

"When is hockey going to start?"

"Did you get the letter that we sent with a schedule?"

"Uh, I don't know."

"Well we sent you a schedule and hockey will start in three weeks."

"Aww, that long?"

"It will be here before you know it."

A WEEK LATER . . .

"When is hockey going to start?"

"Did you get the letter?"

"Uh, let me check the mail. Oh, here it is."

"O.K., that says when your practice is going to be. Two weeks away."

"Aww, that long?"

"It's really not that far off."

ANOTHER WEEK LATER (I call this time)

"Hello, this is Scott"

"Oh, hi Scott."

"I'm calling to let you know that I will be there to pick you up for hockey tomorrow morning"

"Hockey is tomorrow?!?!?!?!? Hey mom, I got hockey tomorrow, oh I can't wait until" CLICK

Imagine what he felt when he saw the ice, when his coaches said "hello, so glad to see you," when he finally felt the cool breeze against his face as he sailed across the rink.

BIG EVENT: First Day of Tutoring

2010-10-19T11:53:00.000-07:00

This might surprise you, but kids love tutoring. If I had to say why the first thing that comes to mind is that their tutors love them. The dinos know that they are going to be loved at tutoring. Each week there is someone who has set aside time to read especially with them. In some cases we have kids with the same tutor for 5, 6, 7 years! Talk about volunteer commitment!

I'd like to think that students like tutoring, because they can see that it helps them. Don't get us wrong, we aren't replacing school. However, just one day per week spent reading and doing homework with a caring committed adult goes a long way in supporting the learning that takes place in school.

DinoMights is super proud to announce that this year we will have two DinoMights high schoolers tutoring young second graders. Sandy and Paola both had their own committed tutors back in the day. Now they are following in those footsteps.

Please say a prayer for DinoMights students and tutors today!

Longtime tutor Leah, with James at graduation 2009.

2010-10-18T11:44:00.000-07:00

This is not officially about DinoMights, but I just couldn't resist posting it here. She's prepping to be a DinoMight. Hockey and Reading. That's my girl.

Special Guest: Minnesota Wild

2010-10-15T15:34:00.000-07:00

Before the Minnesota Wild ever took the ice as an NHL hockey team they sought out worthy causes in the community to support. At that time DinoMights was in its early grassroots phase as well. Two Wild execs came to meet with John Foley, the founder and original director of DinoMights. After a nice lunch and conversation about how the Wild might be involved with DinoMights, the group was driving through the neighborhood back to John's office. There on the street were three boys playing street hockey with sticks that they had formed from temporary no parking signs. John said, "stop the car, I've got to sign these kids up." 12 years later, both that group of kids and the Minnesota Wild are still involved with DinoMights.

The Wild helps out DinoMights in numerous ways, but one is supporting our fundraiser. They always donate autographed items for the silent auction. This year they are donating a pair of game tickets, with a Zamboni ride at the period break! They also come to the event and share in the program.

Brad Bombardir smiles with DinoMights girls at a donated suite for a Wild game

Brad Bombardir, former player and current Director of Community Relations, is a regular presenter at the event. For the las few years he has presented our annual academic and service awards. In addition he has given those award winners a behind the scenes tour of Xcel Center on a game night.

So we are glad to continue a wonderful relationship with the Wild, and glad that they will once again be involved with our fundraiser.

Special Guest: Alyssa Grogan

2010-10-14T14:05:00.000-07:00

As the starting goalie for one of the nation's premier hockey universities and for the USA U22 team, Alyssa Grogan has traveled all over the country playing hockey. There is one place that she has traveled that none of her U of M or National Team teammates have been . . . The Basement of the 4-plex!

U of M Gopher goalie, Alyssa Grogan, 2010 fundraiser guest, at the "4-Plex" donating hockey equipment to DinoMights.

And she is still our friend, despite the overwhelming "hockey smell" of our equipment storage.

A few years ago we had a call in the office from a High School senior who wanted to do something for the DinoMights. Alyssa Grogan, one of the top High School goalies in the state, engineered an equipment drive for DinoMights before going on to play for the Minnesota Golden Gophers.

Alyssa really exemplifies the mission of DinoMights to develop Physical, Academic, Social and Spiritual excellence. She has had a lot of success playing hockey as a college student. She was also the goalie for the USA U22 team that represented out country in Lake Placid New York last summer. She was an academic all conference selection for the WCHA. In addition to all her on ice success, Alyssa has maintained her concern for the community and her dedication to her faith. She also came out to Learn 2 Skate this year along with a few other Gopher players and head coach, Brad Frost. She is also an active member of the U of M Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

One of the DinoMights' big events this year is the unveiling of our newest team: a girls team for 3rd through 5th graders. We believe that it is very important to be giving girls the same opportunities as boys in the sport of hockey. So we are very glad to welcome Alyssa Grogan to tell us of the importance of giving the opportunity of hockey to young girls, and also the importance of developing not just physical excellence, but Academic, Social and Spiritual excellence as well.

Special Guest: Stanley Cup

2010-10-13T13:20:00.000-07:00

DinoMights Board member John, wife Cherie, and DinoMights participant, Miguel with the Stanley Cup at the 2009 Fundraiser

We have a returning guest to our Fundraiser this year. The Stanley Cup was so popular we just had to invite it back again.

As a kid I competed for the Cup repeatedly in my basement. I fired tennis balls and plastic floor hockey pucks at my less than willing younger brother. Those series rarely ended in glory. Usually, they ended with my sibling choosing to simply walk off the ice. To be fair to my bro, those contests were mostly fixed in my favor. I just enough older to know how to win every time. At any rate, lifting the Cup after nailing your little brother in the face with a tennis ball really isn't that sweet. But, I did want to taste that sweetness somehow. Being up close to the real thing brings me back to the best part of those days. My imagination for greatness is sparked by the Stanley Cup.

I love to watch the clinching of the Cup every year when it is awarded to the NHL Champions. It doesn't matter to me who wins. Even if my favorite, hometown team loses, I love to watch the very end of the Stanley Cup playoffs. There is just no celebration quite like in hockey. The players raise their hands in the air to signal victory; their sticks and gloves fly in the air, and they go to pile on top of the goalie. (For a hilarious Goalie pile FAIL watch this video about 2/3 of the way through.) I'm pretty sure that's what the angels in heaven were doing when Jesus walked out of the tomb.

I've accepted that my name will never be etched into the Stanley Cup. I can live with that, but visiting with the Stanley Cup reminds me that Teams can achieve great things together.

BIG EVENT!

2010-10-12T13:09:00.000-07:00

I'm a very linear thinker. One thing at a time suits my brain best. But October is the month that challenges my brain to keep things straight at DinoMights more than any other.

You see, we are on the verge of a big event. Well to be more clear we are on the verge of several big events . . . many big events.

In just a week, we will start tutoring, then the first hockey practices. We are kicking off some new programming for High School aged students this month. And of course, our big fundraiser event is coming up on Monday November 15.

So here's the challenge: Keep it all straight and be sure to tell the stories.

(Do I really want to do this?) Yes. I'm doing it. I'll post every weekday from now to the fundraiser on the 15th. There's so much on which to keep you updated.

Please stay tuned, and get active with the DinoMights this month!

Volunteers Needed

2010-09-23T09:34:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends of DinoMights,

If you were inspired by Mike's post (August 30), then consider applying to volunteer or pass the info to a friend.

Everything you need to know is posted at http://www.dinomights.com/getting/involved

We're starting up soon, so don't delay!

From a volunteer's perspective

2010-08-30T08:59:00.000-07:00

The following post is from Mike Ervin, a coach for our Mini-Mites team of beginning hockey players. I love how honest Mike is about his experience as a person who has not grown up in an urban setting. I also love how he speaks of the new experience of walking alongside. It is also interesting to note that Mike talks (like many volunteers have over the years) not so much about how the kids have been changed by him, but rather how they have changed him.

“Hockey is a sport for rich white kids, and poor city kids and minorities just don’t play.”

That is that stereotype that I have lived with for my entire life, and I suspect that it is a stereotype that others who come from the suburbs hold. Working with Dinomights this year helped me break that stereotype for good and it is helping to break that stereotype for others as well. Dinomights brings a diverse group of kids together to discover and share a common love of hockey. And it turns out that kids who you wouldn’t associate with hockey have a great deal of talent.

After growing up in Bloomington and going to Jefferson High School (capitol of high school hockey in MN!), I came to the city with a full set of biases about what city kids are like and about who belongs on an ice rink. But getting to know and love the kids that I worked with at Dinomights helped to break down some of the stereotypes that were bred from ignorance in my upbringing.

You frequently hear the phrase, “don’t judge someone until you have walked a mile in their shoes.” This year, I had the chance to skate a mile alongside of the kids of South Minneapolis, who break all of the stereotypes that I carried with me from the suburbs into the city. They were both talented at hockey, and also responsive and respectful to coaches. They will be good ambassadors to the game and positive influences on their communities!

God is moving in the city, and He is using Dinomights to connect himself to the kids of Minneapolis and work to break down the stereotypes and prejudices that people from the suburbs may hold about who plays hockey. I’m grateful for the opportunity to connect with Dinomights this year, and I’m lucky to have gained some exposure (through UrbanHomeworks) to the kinds of organizations that are working for the Lord in Minneapolis to protect, develop, and enrich at-risk communities.

DinoMights is currently seeking new volunteers. If you have been inspired by Mike's story, or you are just generally interested in volunteering for DinoMights visit www.dinomights.com/getting/involved

Stanley Cup

2010-08-26T12:32:00.000-07:00

Stand by for a very special announcement to make:

Drumroll . . .

The Stanley Cup will be returning to the DinoMights Annual Fundraiser on Monday, November 15, 2010! Mark your calendar. If you didn't get your photo with the cup last year, you will have another chance.

Board Member, Gracia and PeeWee, Lucy pose with the Cup. © Photo Richard Westley Wong

We are also expecting (barring class schedule conflict) Minnesota Gopher and member of the US Women's U22 National Hockey Team, Alyssa Grogan. Also you can expect a presence from the Minnesota Wild. Our good friend Brad Bombardir is a regular at our event each year.

It's looking like it will be a star studded evening. Save the Date and we hope you can join us.

Video Voices

2010-07-08T08:58:00.000-07:00

Please enjoy watching this award winning local documentary produced by our own alumnus, Kayla. The video was shown on public television and won a Hometown Video Award from the Alliance for Community Media.

The video really captures a lot of important things about DinoMights. I love how they spent time talking to people. It was especially touching to hear from parents how the program benefits their kids.

Leave a comment to let us know your reactions to the video and to say thanks to Kayla for putting it together!

Congratulations to Coach Jeremiah!

2010-06-28T13:31:00.000-07:00

Jeremiah was a DinoMights coach for 4 years. During that time he was a helpful servant and mentor to many kids. Today we're happy to share with the DinoMights family that Jeremiah and his wife Mandy have adopted a daughter named Gabby.

Mandy and Jeremiah with their new daughter, Gabby

We know Coach Jeremiah will be a great dad. He was already sharing his parenting skills as a Dino Coach with us, and now we are sure that Gabby will have a great family!

If you want to give a shout out to Jeremiah, or say how he showed his parenting to you (or your children), feel free to leave a comment!

Hockey In the Hood Camp: Why I love these images (Part 3)

2010-06-25T09:51:00.000-07:00

Smells

The reason I entitled this image, "Smells," is because that is the very first thing that pops into my mind when I look at this image.

Here's what you see: 8 brand new DinoMights about to ride home in the DinoMights van (There are 8, one is tucked way back and you can't really see him in the picture). You see smiles. You see seatbelts (That's very important in the DinoMights van). And you see Hockey bags piled up in the back of the van.

You see the joy of kids that have just enjoyed a new sport for the first time. They are mostly Latino in this case and they have no idea that Latinos have not traditionally played this sport. They also have no idea that there are like 2 professional Latino Hockey players. They don't care. Bottom line: They are kids who have had fun playing.

You see kids about to laugh and enjoy the van. The van is actually part of the fun. We tell jokes, try tongue twisters, and tell funny stories. The kids don't seem to mind that it takes a little extra time to stop at every kid's house. In fact, they usually don't want to be the first one out. It's fun to be together whether it is on the ice, in the hot summer, or riding home in the van.

What you don't see is . . .

How stinky those hockey bags are!

Hockey In the Hood Camp: Why I love these images (Part 2)

2010-06-24T09:36:00.000-07:00

Connections:

I'm entitling this post: Connections. It's the first thing that came to my mind related to the above image. That is Old School DinoMights Coach, Cody, tying the skates of brand new DinoMights participant, Javon.

I don't think I know anyone more connected than Cody. He hasn't been a Dino coach for about 6 years, but he is still very connected. In fact, this last week we added a whole host of new connections for Cody.

This is current Coach, Mike. He is an Urban Neighbor living in an Urban Homeworks home. Cody is the Community Development Director for Urban Homeworks. So Cody is constantly hooking DinoMights up with new coaches, like Mike. There is no contest. The person who has single handedly connected DinoMights with the most volunteers is Cody.

In fact, Cody connected me to DinoMights 10 years ago.

In fact, Cody connected my wife to DinoMights 10 years ago.

In fact, that's how I met my wife. So you could say that Cody connected me and my wife!

So it is really meaningful to me to have Cody come and tie some skates at Hockey in the Hood Camp. I thought it was pretty cool when one of the new girls told me that she baby sits for Cody's son and daughter.

But, that wasn't the end of the connections. One of the students that Cody mentored over the years was a boy named Jesse. One of the brand new students we added this year is Jesse's little cousin, Javon. The same boy, whose skates are being tied by Cody in the above picture!

Quite a connection.

Hockey In the Hood Camp: Why I love these images (Part 1)

2010-06-23T09:17:00.000-07:00

Last week we completed our biggest Hockey in the Hood Camp ever! We had 26 brand new hockey players on the ice. That is our biggest group of new students ever.

There are a lot of wonderful and lasting images in my head from the week. I'd like to share them with you over the next few days, and explain what the images mean to me. Please feel free to leave a comment if you are touched by any of these pictures and stories.

This is a picture of Salma and Charlin hugging on the ice. If you could browse our pictures, you'd find at least a dozen pictures of these two friends hugging. One of the most meaningful things about our Girls team is the close relationships they form.

One girl, named Emily, moved last spring. She has been very concerned that she might not get to be a part of DinoMights anymore. She was able to come to Hockey in the Hood Camp. When she saw Charlin in the parking lot they hugged and cried, because they were so happy to see each other. That is an image that will stick in my mind for a while.

One thing we are very excited to report is the number of new girls in the program. DinoMights has had girls teams for a long time, but we are really making a push to improve our girls teams this year. We added 17 new girls this spring. I'm really looking forward to seeing them enjoy a lot of hugs over the next few years!

UPDATE

2010-06-10T12:44:00.000-07:00

UPDATE:

• All DinoMights fans will be interested to know that the car wash raised $700. The kids washed seven cars in the rain for an average of $100 per vehicle.

• DinoMights has broken the record for most new DinoMights. We are up to 23 and counting! That breaks last year's record of 20.

Stay tuned for news from Hockey in the Hood Camp next week!

Washing in the Rain

2010-06-05T17:22:00.000-07:00

It rained the whole time . . .

They didn't wash that many cars . . .

But they worked hard . . .

And asked everyone they saw to help them go to camp . . .

In the end they raised $600! I'm very proud of our campers. They really took ownership of the trip they are going to enjoy in a few weeks. They weren't ashamed to work hard for something important. Thanks to those of you that helped out.

* By the way it's not too late to help support the cause. We've raised $5,500 specifically for camp this year, which is GREAT! The whole summer budget, not including salaries and administration costs, is about $15,000. Anything helps. Who knows maybe someone out there is so inspired by kids who will wash cars in the rain, that they would like to give a big gift to ensure that the DinoMights summer is fully funded.

Car Wash for Camp

2010-06-05T09:50:00.000-07:00

UPDATE: A donor has agreed to match the first $250 raised in the car wash! Please come out or make a gift to the car wash to help raise funds for KAA and help us earn the full match.

THE DINOMIGHTS CAN REALLY USE YOUR HELP!

Today 18 DinoMights who are planning to attend Kids Across America Camp in Southern Missouri are holding a Car Wash Fundraiser. The kids are very excited, both for camp and for their own efforts at raising funds towards their camp tuition. There are a few ways that you can help us out.

1) PRAY THAT WE DON'T GET RAINED OUT!

2) COME DOWN TO THE CAR WASH TO SUPPORT THE KIDS (RAIN OR SHINE)

The wash will be held at:

Minikada Mobil Station

at the intersection of Excelsior and France Ave.

3500 France Ave

St. Louis Park

10 AM- 4 PM

3) MAKE A GIFT TO CAMP

The kids are hoping to raise an average of $10 per car and they are hoping to wash 50 cars for a total of about $500. However, with poor weather predicted, they may really need the help of people that really love DinoMights and don't need their cars washed that badly.

You don't even have to come to the car wash to make a gift to camp.

• You can visit the DinoMights webpage or use the paypal tab below and make an online gift. Gifts don't have to be big to help with this effort. Give whatever you would give it you actually came to the car wash. Anything can encourage the kids. Of Course, if you are interested in making a large donation the per kid cost of Kids Across America is about $300, and we are bringing 18 total students.

http://www.dinomights.com/hot_off_the_ice/newsflash/1

• You can visit the DinoMights website and sponsor a particular student who is attending camp.

http://www.dinomights.com/hot_off_the_ice/newsflash/47

• You can pledge a small amount per car that the kids wash

Write me back with a pledge. If you pledged $1 per car washed and we washed 50 cars, then it would end up being a $50 gift.

It will be a real encouragement to the kids to know that some people are already behind their efforts.

4) FORWARD THIS MESSAGE TO ANYONE THAT MAY COME OUT TO THE CAR WASH TO SUPPORT THE KIDS

Thanks so much for your time reading this message and for your support of DinoMights

Please Support Sandy

2010-05-31T12:40:00.000-07:00

Name: Sandy S.

Age: 15

Camp Attending:

Kids Across America (KAA)

KAA is a Christian Sports Camp located in Southern Missouri. The camp is dedicated to building Christian leaders by encouraging, equipping and empowering urban youth and their mentors through sports camping.

My Camp Favorites are:

Getting to know others from all different states; learning about God; having Bible Study; and the various athletic activities

A few things learned at camp:

God is our father; he died for us on the cross and saved us from our sins. He’ll be there for you, and answer your prayers.

Ways you could pray for me while I’m at Camp are . . .

Pray that I’ll be safe, make new friends, learn more about God and grow in faith. Pray that I won’t be the “shy girl” at camp.

• $300 or just $25 per month can support Sandy’s full KAA costs including transportation and tuition.

• Special gifts of any amount are investments in the lives of urban youth by sending them to camp.

To sponsor Sandy with a full or partial camp scholarship please click the donate button below, and type "Camp Scholarship for Sandy," in the description line.

Please Support Paola

2010-05-28T12:34:00.000-07:00

Name: Paola F.

Age: 17 years old

My Favorite thing about camp:

My Favorite things about going to camp are:
The sports and the people.

One thing I have learned about God at camp:

I have learned a lot about God at camp.

One way you could pray for me while I’m at Camp is . . .

Pray for my faith. Pray that I will become closer with God.

• $300 or just $25 per month can support Paola’s full KAA costs including transportation and tuition.

• Special gifts of any amount are investments in the lives of urban youth by sending them to camp.

To sponsor Paola with a full or partial camp scholarship please click the donate button below, and type "Camp Scholarship for Paola," in the description line.

Please Support Treveon

2010-05-27T12:30:00.000-07:00

Name: Treveon M.

Age: 17 years old

My Favorite thing about camp:

Learning about God and meeting new people.

One thing I have learned about God at camp:

I learned that God is our Saviour and died for our sins.

One way you could pray for me while I’m at Camp is . . .

Pray that God will protect my family, because I won’t be there to protect them.

• $300 or just $25 per month can support Treveon’s full KAA costs including transportation and tuition.

• Special gifts of any amount are investments in the lives of urban youth by sending them to camp.

To sponsor Treveon with a full or partial camp scholarship please click the donate button below, and type "Camp Scholarship for Treveon," in the description line.

Camp Scholarships

2010-05-26T12:29:00.000-07:00

Many of the young adults that grew up attending Kids Across America or Silver Birch Ranch with DinoMights say that those experiences were the most influential moments in their childhood. Not only were they places of great joy, but they were also the places where they became grounded in their faith.

Camp is one of the main "Spiritual" aspects of DinoMights' programming. Students who choose to attend camp will enjoy unique recreational activities away from the city, a strong sense of Christian Community, and learn about the good news of Jesus.

Here are a few ways that your donation can help out:

• $3000 can pay the full tuition for all the campers attending Kids Across America Camp

• $300 can support the full transportation and tuition costs for one camper.

• $25 per month pledge can support the full transportation and tuition for one camper.

• Gifts of any size are a great investment into the lives of DinoMights Youth!

We will be highlighting the kids who are attending Kids Across America over that next few weeks. They will be telling you in their own words what camp means to them and how you can help them out. We hope that you will consider supporting the cost of camp for some of our wonderful kids!

If you would like to make a tax-deductible donation to support the cost of DinoMights camp, please click the pay pal button below.

Consider Investing

2010-05-25T10:11:00.000-07:00

Maurice, a sophomore at Notre Dame University, leads young DinoMights on the "Slip-N-Slide" at Silver Birch Ranch

Consider this: if a 20 year-old was to invest $40,000 over the course of 20 years, and let it grow at a yearly rate of 10% until age 65, that investment would grow to $1,007,805! Think about that, invest $40,000 and end up with a million as long as you hang in there long-term.

DinoMights was founded on a similar principle; that long-term relationships between youth and positive caring adults pays big dividends. So, as I was considering the costs of summer programming, the thought occurred to me, “What is a DinoMights summer worth in terms of an investment? What long-term rewards are there, if we hang in there over time?”

Up front we are going to invest about $15,000 in summer programming for 2010. Practically, it pays for things like transportation and fees to Kids Across America and Silver Birch Ranch; ice time for two hockey camps; materials for Academic Power Camp; and printing costs for our yearly publication, the Dino Update. However, when we look at the summer with a long-term perspective we envision a huge payoff.

Consider how valuable it is to invest in DinoMights summer hockey camps. The Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement (CIRCLE 2006) reported that 18-25 year-olds that participated in sports during their youth, “were more likely than non-participants to be engaged in regular volunteering, registering to vote, feeling comfortable speaking in a public setting, and watching news . . . more closely.”

Consider how valuable it is to invest in DinoMights summer Academic Power Camp. 85% of DinoMights graduate from High School compared to 55% from Minneapolis Public Schools (MN. Dept. of Education 2005). That is particularly powerful when one considers the impact of high school drop outs on all of us. According to the Alliance for Excellent Education (2009), “Dropouts from the Class of 2008 alone will cost the nation more than $319 billion in lost wages over the course of their lifetimes.”

Kissely age 7 and Faith age 9 play word games at Power Camp

Consider how valuable it is to invest in the social side of DinoMights’ camping experiences. The trips to KAA in Missouri and Silver Birch Ranch in Wisconsin are the memories that DinoMights never forget. The bonds forged traveling in busses and vans over the summer become unbreakable. Grown up DinoMights stay in touch on Facebook, live as roommates, and stand up in each other’s weddings!

Consider how valuable it is to invest in the spiritual lessons learned at camp. There is no price tag on young, mostly low income kids from the Phillips, Powderhorn and Central Neighborhoods knowing that there is a God that loves them unconditionally, who will never leave them or forsake them. Jesus paid a price with his death on the cross, but truly it was an investment that would keep paying off forever. 2000 years ago someone was dying, for a group of hockey playing inner-city kids that hadn’t even been born, so that they could have life to the fullest. (John 10:10)

When we really consider it, our investment does go a long way! Please consider investing in urban youth by sending a special gift to support Camp Scholarships. Please tune in over the next few days to hear about how you can invest in the lives of DinoMights attending camp.

Joeny, age 16 leads creative activities in her cabin with younger DinoMights at Silver Birch Ranch

Learn To Skate

2010-04-28T15:03:00.000-07:00

Every year DinoMights partners with local schools to do the Greg Carroll Learn 2 Skate program. It is a five week program that gives first graders in the area the opportunity to learn how to skate. It is DinoMight's major community service project of the year and many members of the DinoMight community get involved to help out. DinoMight coaches, alumni, highschoolers, and grade school participants are stepping up to the plate to volunteer this year and it has been a blast so far! I have had the pleasure of leading a group with my older brother Jesse (We are both pictured above as young DinoMight players). It is awesome to be able to do something I love alongside my brother and we both appreciate the opportunity to give back to DinoMights. Jesse currently works for Minneapolis Public Schools in their after school program. I guess he decided he isn't around kids enough because he committed to 5 Wednesdays of learn to skate :) We were grateful for the help of DinoMight highschoolers Joeny, Sandy, and Trey today. The first graders think highschoolers are so cool and enjoyed having their attention! I am looking forward to two more weeks with these awesome kids and volunteers!

Calling all High School DinoMights

2010-04-15T14:19:00.000-07:00

Calling all High School DinoMights!

We want your feedback on two ideas that we are very serious about.

1) High School DinoMights retreat at a cabin (a nice cabin-not roughing it) probably MEA weekend in October.

2) Rink Rats

Weekly hockey and available homework help at a park during Dec, Jan, and Feb.

Two questions:
1) Would you come to these things?
2a) If you would come what would make these things awesome?
2b) If not why and what would make you come?

Chime in by making a comment here or on the DinoMights Facebook Group.

Interning at DinoMights

2010-03-24T13:45:00.000-07:00

Every Tuesday I meet with a group of Social Work students at my school and we discuss what is going on at our internship placements. It often turns into somewhat of a group therapy session as students share the challenges they are going through. The most common frustration that students talk about tends to be dealing with their supervisors. Many feel that their supervisors do not understand the purpose of the internship and assign them tasks simply to keep them busy rather than tasks that truly foster learning. Others say that their supervisors do not have time for them, and that they are left to figure things out on their own. There are some students that even feel resented and unwelcome at their internships.

I am grateful to say that their experiences are nothing like what I have experienced interning at DinoMights. From day one the staff has made my learning a priority. I have to admit that I was pretty sure of myself when I began working here. After all, I had been involved in DinoMights for almost my whole life, there couldn't be that much that I didn't already know. That notion was quickly put to rest as I realized there is a lot that goes on behind the scenes that as a program participant and even as a volunteer I was never aware of. For example, it is a lot of work to coordinate rides! I had no idea as a kid that there were calls, emails, and spreadsheets involved in getting my coach to my house every Wednesday morning before practice.

Even beyond the countless hours of quality youth work experience I have gained over the school year, I have been introduced to a lot of helpful new skills in the DinoMights office. I have had the opportunity to help plan a major fundraising event, edit video footage, record financial information, recruit volunteers, learn how to use complicated computer programs, test student's academic skills, and connect our program with other community resources. The staff has even been trying to teach me how to drive! I can't say how much I appreciate Scott, Pa Kou, and Eric's willingness to teach me. There have been many times when it would have been easier (and faster!) for them to complete a particular task themselves but they took the time to show me how to do it instead. I don't feel the same pressure that many of my peers feel at their internships about perfect performance. I want to do my job well, but I also know that mistakes are a part of the learning process and that no one here is going to reprimand me if I mess up. I feel free to ask questions and have always felt very supported by everyone in the program.

I am so appreciative of the diverse experiences and learning opportunities that I have had so far here at DinoMights and am looking forward to continuing that during the rest of my time here!

March Girl's Group Fun!

2010-03-08T16:11:00.000-08:00

Every month the fourth grade girls get together to do a fun activity. The purpose of this group is to nurture the girl's friendships with each other while building relationships with the adult leaders and to provide more ways to stay connected with the program when they are off the ice. This month we decorated Easter eggs. It was even warm enough for us to do a hunt outside! It was a beautiful day with some beautiful DinoMight girls :)

Behind the Scenes with Brad Bombardir

2010-02-24T09:30:00.000-08:00

Jalin, Sierra, and Preston earned a very special experience at a recent Minnesota Wild game. Jalin was the winner of the John Foley Excellence in Servant Leadership award and the others were the Hockey in the Hood Cup winners for Academic Excellence. As a reward Brad Bombardir, Director of Community Partnerships and former player for the Minnesota Wild, rewarde the winners with a special Behind the Scenes tour of the Xcel Energy Center before a Wild home game. A very special Thanks to Brad and all the special people at the Minnesota Wild that make us feel so important. The experience was amazing! The kids were grateful and learned a lot.

Below are some of the highlights from our trip.

Preston and Sierra pet a Bhrama Bull in the lobby before the game. The Bull was there to advertise for an upcoming Rodeo. It was an unexpected way to begin our journey.

Brad took us down to ice level through the players' entrance. We saw the Zamboni Machines up close. It really is fascinating how they work.

We met the game officials. These guys travel . . . A LOT! After that we watched warm-ups from the ice level (Picture at top).

Brad took us up to the Press Box where we met Tom Reid, former North Star and WCCO Radio Play by Play announcer. We also got to go on the FOX Stage and say the "Let's Play Hockey Cheer" with Brad.

Next we went to the control room. This is where everything from the scoreboard to the horn to the cameras are controlled. It was really mind blowing how much stuff happens during a game. The kids learned a lot in here. The began to understand that "Hockey Player" is not the only sports career.

We got to watch the team take the ice from right outside the locker room. One of the players said to Brad, "I'm going to go CHEESEY." Later we asked Brad what he meant. Brad explained that "Cheese" is a French Canadian slang term for shooting the puck in the upper part of the net. Finally we got to watch the game. We were shouting "CHEESE" every time the Wild got a chance to shoot. The Wild won 5-2. Most of all it was a win for three kids who have worked hard to serve others and do well in school!

DinoMights Communicate with the White House

2010-02-03T14:42:00.000-08:00

We say time and time again here at DinoMights that we are much more than a hockey team. We do our best to give our kids knowledge and experiences that they will be able to carry into adulthood. Last summer at Power Camp (our week long academic camp) we wanted to teach the kids that they have a voice, and that their voice has power. After spending a week learning about the environment and our responsibility to care for it, DinoMight students were asked to write a letter to the president of the United States, sharing with him what they had learned and asking him to make their concerns a priority. One little boy proudly read his letter in front of the whole group. Since then, almost six months have passed and our students have probably forgotten about their letters to the president recently. They will be reminded soon though because a response letter from the White House was just delivered to the DinoMight office! We are excited to share with the kids that someone read their letters. For a little kid to imagine a letter that they wrote being read at the White house has to be an incredible feeling. We hope that these sort of activities will encourage our students to have a political voice in the world. No matter which party or elected official they choose to support, we hope that they will use their vote to empower their communities and to be advocates for justice. People in the neighborhoods we serve are often underrepresented in elections and other political activities and we hope that our youth will be catalysts in eliminating that disparity. We believe that our students have important things to say and do our best to let their voices be heard!

FOX 9 Morning Show with MA Rosko

2010-01-20T17:00:00.000-08:00

Check us out on FOX 9 Morning Show on 1/20!

2010-01-19T13:09:00.000-08:00

We're very excited to be featured on The FOX 9 Morning Show with M.A. Roscoe tomorrow morning, January 20, 2010. If you have access please tune in and watch. It's our first LIVE T.V. appearance!

Thanks to our friends at Infinity Hockey for setting this up!

In the meantime we invite you to check out the DinoMights store on the right side of the screen for a Raffle and T-Shirt Sale to help raise proceeds for DinoMights programming. We are giving away Center Ice tickets to an upcoming Wild Game as the raffle Grand Prize.

Reasons to Give: Your support makes a difference

2009-12-18T13:08:00.000-08:00

Have you ever heard the story about the boy and his grandfather who were strolling on the beach when the tide was out? They discovered a multitude of starfish drying out in the sun. The Grandfather started throwing starfish back into the sea. The boy protested, "Grandpa! What are you doing? Do you see how many starfish are on the beach? You can't make a dent in the number even if you stood here all day. What your doing doesn't make a difference."

The Grandpa looked at the starfish in his hand and said to the boy, "It makes a difference to this one."

It really can feel that our efforts don't make a difference when we consider the broad list of needs and causes in our world today. So when we give to something we really want to know that it makes a difference for the people the organization serves. We want to know, at least, if the ones we are supporting are getting back into the water, so to speak.

So we want to let you know that DinoMights does make a difference. We can't measure every intangible that makes "Hockey in the Hood" really great, but there are a few important things we can point to as indicators of success.

The mission of DinoMights is to equip our urban youth to develop Physical, Academic, Social and Spiritual Excellence. So let's take a look at each area to see how DinoMights is making a difference.

PHYSICAL

Playing ice hockey teaches kids many things, and it also helps them to be physically healthy. 32% of US children and teens are overweight or obese. That is a staggering statistic. Meanwhile, there are currently no parks with recreational ice hockey rinks in Phillips, Powderhorn, and Central neighborhoods. Moreover, we hear quite often from parents that they don't feel completely safe about their kids going to the park to play. So DinoMights is providing the opportunity to stay active during the winter for kids in South Minneapolis.

We can point to the success of this effort in several ways. First we do a hockey skills test at the beginning and end of each season. Roughly 90-92% of DinoMights improve their skills on a yearly basis. This shows that participants are getting stronger and improving as athletes. They are bucking the trend of obesity by staying active throughout the winter.

Also, quite a few of our students have been able to play at higher levels. Over 30 DinoMights have participated in High School hockey, which is very competitive in the State of Minnesota. Many more have participated in other high school sports such as Track and Field, Football, and Cross Country.

ACADEMIC

The high school graduation rate for DinoMights is 85%. That is significantly higher than the Minnesota Department of Education report in 2005 that stated the rate for Minneapolis Public Schools is 55%. Again, that is staggering. A 30% difference is a significant statement in favor of DinoMights' academic success.

We provide tutoring mainly to our youngest students with the intention of getting them to read on grade level by the end of 3rd Grade. Reading on Grade level by the end of 3rd grade is a major predictor of future academic success. We perform yearly reading assessments on the tutoring students both to provide them with level appropriate materials and to see their improvement. Each year in the last decade, 100% of tutoring students have improved one reading grade level or more. In other words, 0% of DinoMights tutoring students have fallen further behind in reading for over 10 years.

SOCIAL

Phillips, Central and Powderhorn are on the news far too often for violent acts of crime. In order to stay out of the news urban youth need positive places for peer interaction. One of the most common things students say on their yearly evaluations is that DinoMights helped them make friends.

Recently, one of the original DinoMights got married and he had another original DinoMight as his best man. Our intern Kelsey grew up in DinoMights and it is amazing to hear her perspective on how DinoMights influenced her childhood peer group. She is a junior in college and still spends time with her DinoMights teammates.

In addition, the youth growing up in the program learn the value of service. Each year DinoMights engages in the Greg Carroll Learn 2 Skate Program. Our coaches and students teach the first graders at Green Central Elementary and Andersen Elementary how to ice skate. It is a major self-esteem booster for the first graders. Our kids see that and it makes them want to serve more.

15% of our volunteers are former students. Many grown DinoMights have served on the Park Ave. Church Summer Staff. Many more are involved in service careers and service with their churches.

SPIRITUAL

It can be hard to measure spiritual impact. However, the students that have gotten the most out of DinoMights over the years are the ones that have learned that the Gospel, or Good News, to urban kids is a team sport that helps them stay physically healthy, academic support in the face of low performing schools, a great place to make friends, and the knowledge that Jesus loves them.

We don't force any of our students to become Christian. We also don't tell them what church to go to, how to be baptized, or how to take communion. We do however follow the command of God to love thy neighbor as thyself. We also take heed to Jesus' words that the Kingdom belongs to the children.

Many of the students value this part of DinoMights very much. One student put it this way on his yearly evaluation in response to what he values most about DinoMights, "That we beat the stereotype that all hockey players are white and that we do it through Jesus Christ."

In conclusion, your support makes a difference. It allows DinoMights to equip urban youth to develop Physical, Academic, Social and Spiritual Excellence. When you look into the sea of needs and feel that your efforts don't matter, think of the DinoMights youth and know that it matters for these ones.

Reasons to Give: There is a lot of need

2009-12-16T18:32:00.000-08:00

Jose and Cornelius enjoy a fun moment at Picture Day 2009

One good reason to give to DinoMights is that DinoMights is filling gaps in places where there is a lot of need.

Phillips, Central and Powderhorn are some of the poorest neighborhoods in the Twin Cities. The median household income for Phillips Neighborhood is right about $20,000 There are about 37,000 people combined in the three South Minneapolis, MN neighborhoods served by DinoMights. Almost half of those are children and youth. 70% of the households in our neighborhoods have kids.

Unfortunately, that means that for the kids there is a deficit in resources compared to their greater metro area neighbors. Just think in terms of the opportunity to play a team sport like hockey. For a family to get started they first need to purchase equipment. For just one kid a family could spend anywhere from $500 to $1000 on equipment. By the way if you've learned the secret of a new full set of hockey for only $500 please share with the public.

Donated skates lined up for Greg Carroll Learn 2 Skate. Learn 2 Skate will serve 220 inner city youth in 2010.

Imagine you were spending 5% of your income on equipment for just one child. That has not even accounted for the ice time yet, which may be anywhere from $400 to $1200 per child.

So the cost of hockey for much of the Twin Cities metro area could represent 10% of the income for the typical Phillips Neighborhood family!

So we are helping to provide that opportunity at an affordable cost to local families. Hockey is great. Kids can learn a lot from playing on a hockey team. However, as great as hockey is, hockey is just one way that kids can get what need.

There is a lot of need that comes along with poverty, and not all of it is financial. The Search Institute defines developmental assets that kids need in order to succeed. DinoMights is helping to provide many of the assets that low income families in an urban setting have difficulty providing. A few examples include Other Caring Adults, Service to others, Safety, Positive Peer Influence, High Expectations. There are many other assets that DinoMights helps to give youth. Take a look at the whole list for 8-12 year olds here.

Without these needs met kids are likely to perpetuate the cycle of poverty. They are likely to drop out (about 45% of MPS students drop out). They are likely to come to believe that this world doesn't care about them. And the world is likely to miss out on the joy and beauty they can actually contribute.

So please consider supporting DinoMights financially this year end, because there is a lot of need. DinoMights is helping to meet those needs so that kids can succeed as adults and share their gifts with the world.

If you would like to give to DinoMights please use the widget on the right side of the screen or visit our online donation page.

Reasons to Give

2009-12-15T18:43:00.000-08:00

I once heard in a fundraising seminar that the number one reason people give to a non-profit organization is because they are asked. I guess that makes sense. In order to give to something you at least need to know that something or someone needs your help. So for the next few days I'll be writing about Reasons to give to DinoMights this Holiday Season.

Up front, if the number one reason people give is because they are asked, then I would like to humbly ask for your support of Hockey in the Hood. Now, I know that money is a sensitive topic, and things are tight for many Americans right now. However, DinoMights is a reputable 501 (c) 3 Non-Profit Organization and we do rely on the kindness of financial givers in order to continue the work we do on the South side of Minneapolis.

We do need your help. Our budget for 2009 is $158,000. What a bargain! We served about 250 kids in 2009 from low income neighborhoods with Ice Hockey, Summer Camps, Tutoring, Community Service, Technology classes, Learn 2 Skate Programs, and Faith Based Love at a budgeted cost of about $158,000.

The funds to support DinoMights come from a variety of sources, which can be put into three main categories: Individual Givers, Grants, and Corporate Giving. Individual givers are everyday people that believe in what DinoMights stands for and believes that DinoMights is doing a good job. Grants come from foundations and major corporations that have set aside funds to give to causes they believe in. Typically grants require an application process and sometimes a site visit, because the Foundations want to make sure that they are giving to worthy causes. We're pleased to be supported by some wonderful foundations that truly hold us accountable for the work we're doing. The list includes The National Hockey League, The McKnight Foundation and The General Mills Foundation among others. Visit our partners page to see more. Finally, corporate giving includes free will gifts from business as well as sponsorship of our annual fundraising event.

Right now we are about $20,000 from our year end financial goal. It may sound like a lot, but most of our individual giving happens in December. Of course, $20,000 is nothing to sneeze at. However, if people who see the need decide to give their support this is a very achievable goal.

If you would like to give to DinoMights this holiday season you can do so by clicking on the widget on the right of the screen. You may also visit our online giving page by clicking the link. All gifts are tax-deductible.

If you are in a position to make a major donation in the amount of $10,000, $5,000, or $2,500, and you think this is a worthy cause we would love your support! If you would like to contact me with any questions at all, please feel free.

If you want to make sure that you have Good Reasons to Give, stay tuned this week. I'll be writing about a variety of Good Reasons to support DinoMights in 2009!

Trouble

2009-12-14T18:23:00.000-08:00

A student and tutor prepare for graduation: 2018

“Why are you doing this? I’m gonna be in so much trouble.”

Those are the words of a DinoMights high school student when confronted with the reality of a meeting between his school counselor, his parents and DinoMights staff/tutors. I thought, but didn’t say out loud (mainly because I wasn’t the one on the phone at the time), “You’re already in trouble. In fact, you need to get in trouble right now. What’s going to happen if you don’t get in trouble right now?”

He’s not doing well in school, but he is rather intelligent. Thus, it is easy for him to rationalize away the work and gain the trust of adults so that they believe it is really a minor problem. But, it’s not a minor problem.

Over the fifteen-year history of DinoMights, 85% of our participants have graduated from high school. That’s a big number compared to the 55% of Minneapolis Public School students that graduate according to the Minnesota Department of Education (2005). Now consider the lifetime economic realities for non-high school graduates. According to a recent Minneapolis Star Tribune Article, “Mixed reviews for state’s graduation rates”, by James Walsh (June 12, 2007) less than 10% of non-high school graduates earn more than $35,672 annually and most of those are concentrated in the lowest earning bracket with a median income of just $12,638. That is not a living wage for the 58% of African American and 36% of Asian students that do not graduate high school in Minnesota. Talk about trouble.

Here’s a quote regarding another teen from history with whom many of us are familiar, “Mary was greatly troubled by his words . . .” The quote comes from the Bible in the book of Luke. This is how the Christmas story starts . . . with trouble. Mary, the future mother of Jesus, is faced with the prospect of being an unwed teen mother in a culture where she could be disowned by her family or thrown down a well for being pregnant. Talk about trouble.

Let’s face it, many of us are in trouble right now. Someone reading this letter is out of a job, losing money on their home, or dipping into retirement funds to get by. We have a supporter who is having housing problems, a board member with health problems, and a volunteer who has had several adoptions fall through. Is it going to be like this forever? Is Christmas really for those of us in trouble?

The boy didn’t want to be in that meeting, but he had to be there. He had to hear that this trouble was for his benefit. He had to hear that this trouble was for the benefit of his family and friends as well. For if he is able to overcome this moment then he will be able to share his talents and gifts with the world. His dad said to him, “you may be upset now, but one day you will look back on this moment and thank God.”

The girl, Mary, too had to face this trouble, and she embraced it as the Lord’s servant. For the trouble of Christmas resulted in a Savior to the world. We all needed for her to have that trouble at just that time, because Christmas really is for those in trouble.

This Christmas season please help DinoMights to continue sharing both the lives of those in trouble as well as celebrating with so many who have overcome trouble. Please consider making a year-end gift to help DinoMights achieve its year-end goals. Although times are tough we still have hope that we can raise $20,000 this December. Gifts of all shapes and sizes are welcome to help this effort from the smallest to the largest. We are certain we can make this goal if in addition to the many generous gifts we receive, there are 4 givers able to make a gift of $2,500, 2 at $5,000, or 1 at $10,000 or more. You may give by using the widget on the right side of this blog or by visiting our online giving page on www.dinomights.com. Finally, we are certain that troubled times won’t last forever, for the one who is Savior forever has overcome much trouble.

PERK AT PLAY

2009-11-10T20:47:00.000-08:00

15th Annual Fundraiser

2009-11-04T09:12:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends of DinoMights,

During the last 15 years an unlikely group of urban kids has been saying things that we aren't used to hearing. They have been saying things like,

"Hockey is for Everyone."

"We are graduating from high school!"

"I'll be serving my community this summer."

"The Lord has changed my life."

DinoMights has been making a statement for 15 years. In 1995, John Foley founded DinoMights with just 12 participants. Since that time the group has grown. We expect to serve 325 kids in 2010. The group has traveled the world from Minneapolis to Chicago to Detroit to South Africa! For a decade and a half, long-term relationships between inner-city youth and positive caring adults has resulted in an overall graduation rate 30% higher than the rate for Minneapolis Public Schools. Those same students are serving their communities and involved in their churches. Today all signs point to a bright future carrying on the legacy that began 15 years ago. On the brink of our 15th Anniversary DinoMights Makes a Statement!

DinoMights circa 1999

DinoMights is a youth development organization in Minneapolis, MN that serves children from early childhood to high school graduation with the mission, “to equip our urban youth to develop Physical, Academic, Social and Spiritual excellence” (P.A.S.S). We use hockey as an incentive to foster whole life development in a diverse group of children residing in the Phillips, Powderhorn, and Central neighborhoods. We provide academic tutoring and enrichment; community service and mentorship; and various faith based activities that help fulfill the mission.

We will be celebrating our Anniversary and Making Statements for our future at The DinoMights' 15th Annual Fundraiser on Monday November 16, 7:00 PM at International Market Square (275 Market Street, Minneapolis, MN). The event will feature a student led program, desserts by D'Amico Catering, a Silent Auction, and a chance to Make your own Statement with your support of DinoMights. Our special guest this year will be The Stanley Cup. Bring your cameras if you want to get a picture with the Cup! The Stanley Cup is the oldest sports trophy in the world. We will learn more about its history and legend from the Cup handlers during our program. The Silent Auction will feature many of the same items that guests have enjoyed in the past: Sports Memorabilia, Event Tickets (Gopher Hockey, Guthrie Theater, Children's Theater), and items that make great Christmas gifts. In addition we will have Two Night Stays at both Grand Superior Lodge and Caribou Highlands located on Lake Superior's North Shore!

One of the main reasons that DinoMights has been able to be effective for so long is that generous people such as yourselves have stood behind this unique effort with your financial support. Giving to DinoMights makes a statement that you believe in the good work is being done and that it ought to continue into the future. So we would love it if you could come and support us in 2009. Please RSVP by November 11 if you are planning to attend. If you are unable to attend, but would like to support DinoMights you can give online using the security of PayPal by clicking on the giving widget at right or by visiting http://www.dinomights.com/hot_off_the_ice/newsflash/1 . Our goal is to raise $1000 online before the event. If you are a blogger yourself, you can even post that widget on your own blog to help with our efforts. DinoMights is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization and all gifts are tax deductible.

If you want to learn more about the event please visit http://www.dinomights.com/hot_off_the_ice/newsflash/44 . You can also get updates about the event including Silent Auction Featured items right here on our blog. If you are interested in making a major contribution or contributing through your business please take a look at our sponsorship packet at http://dinomights.com/files/sponsorship09.indd.pdf . Finally, please feel free to pass this message on to anyone you know that may be interested in attending the DinoMights Fundraiser or supporting DinoMights.

With Sincere Thanks,

Scott Harman

Executive Director

Silent Auction Feature: Autographed Items

2009-11-03T18:50:00.000-08:00

The DinoMights Silent Auction traditionally features autographed sports memorabilia. We have had some very fun items in the past. Especially if you are a Minnesota Sports fan. Here are a few things you can expect to find in this year's auction:

PHIL HOUSLEY AUTOGRAPHED STICK

Phil Housley is considered one of the best American born Defensemen ever to play in the National Hockey League. He attended South St. Paul High School and then went on to play 21 years in the NHL. At the time of his retirement he was the highest scoring American born player in the history of the league. Today he is a coach at Stillwater High School, and he also is active in the community promoting youth hockey through the Phil Housley Foundation.

ROD CAREW AUTOGRAPHED BASEBALL

"Rod Carew lined, chopped and bunted his way to 3,053 career hits. His seven batting titles are surpassed only by Ty Cobb, Tony Gwynn and Honus Wagner, and equaled only by Rogers Hornsby and Stan Musial. He used a variety of relaxed, crouched batting stances to hit over .300 in 15 consecutive seasons with the Twins and Angels, achieving a .328 lifetime average. He was honored as American League Rookie of the Year in 1967, won the league MVP 10 years later and was named to 18 straight All-Star teams. He remains a national hero in Panama." --Baseball Hall of Fame Web site

There will be many more autographs in the auction as well as many more exciting items. Bidders stay tuned for more auction features!

Silent Auction Feature: Grand Superior Lodge

2009-10-30T12:21:00.000-07:00

This year's Silent Auction is going to have some incredible items up for bid. The event takes place during DinoMights' 15th Annual Fundraiser at International Market Square, November 16, 2009 7:00 PM. In this post I'd like to tell you about one of the most exciting items of 2009:

TWO NIGHT'S STAY IN A KING JACUZZI SUITE

GRAND SUPERIOR LODGE ON LAKE SUPERIOR

"Let the sound of the waves washing ashore refresh you. Let the sun and moon traversing the lake's horizon relax you. Let the comforts of a fire place and whirlpool tub restore you." --Grand Superior Website

The winner of this auction item will enjoy a relaxing two night stay at a beautiful North Shore resort. Grand Superior Lodge is located on the North Shore of Lake Superior near Two Harbors, MN. The resort is just 2 miles away from Gooseberry Falls State Park and 10 miles from Split Rock Lighthouse. The room features King size bed, whirlpool, and fireplace.

Retail Value: $538

Opening Bid: $250

Big DinoMight Weekend

2009-10-21T15:16:00.000-07:00

This weekend was a big weekend for DinoMight participants! On Friday evening the girl's team kicked off their season with a bonfire and fireworks at a former teammate's house. They roasted lots of marshmallows and enjoyed just hanging out with each other!

Saturday was everyone's first hockey practice of the year. It was interesting to see how much the program has grown since I was a player--there were SO many kids! It was especially fun to see all of the new faces and experience all of the excitement with some of the littlest kids. There was a really great turnout of parents as well. We wanted as many parents as possible to come to the first practice in order to register their kids and also to attend an informational meeting about the program. Since many of our kids parents are Spanish speakers, Scott asked me to help translate key points of the meeting. I was super nervous but the parents were very gracious about the fact that I am still learning and were very encouraging :)

It is going to be a GREAT year!!

Keyana (little sister of DinoMight alumni Greg and Ben) sporting a vintage DinoMight sweatshirt at Saturday's practice

2009-10-09T14:36:00.000-07:00

Drum Roll Please . . . DinoMights would like to make a very special announcement . . . Our special guest for the 2009 Fundraiser will be . . . The Stanley Cup!

The event is just around the corner. The invites are on their way to the post office. This year's event will make a statement!

Picture in your head the captain of the Stanley Cup Champions lifting the legendary trophy over his head. He pumps the 35 pound prize to signify the completion of his team's accomplishment. All the hard work, all the injuries, all the time . . . All to boisterously make this silent statement by carrying the cup over head.

Maybe one day a DinoMight will grow up to be a pro hockey player and have the experience of that exact moment.

Maybe not.

Probably not.

But we have the same joy at graduation. We have the same joy to see our young people grow up to be adults concerned for their community. We have the same joy to see our young people embrace their faith.

So, yeah, this is a good guest for this year's event. I hope you will help us celebrate!

DinoMights at the Wild Game

2009-10-07T16:14:00.000-07:00

Every year the DinoMights get to sell programs at a preseason MN Wild game as a fundraiser. I was in a group with 4th grade girls this year and was very impressed with their sales skills! One little girl came up to me after making a sale and triumphantly announced "I used my puppy eyes!" After working hard for the first half of the game the kids were able to take a seat and watch the rest. Some even got to hang out with the MN Wild mascot, Nordy :)

It Takes a Village

2009-09-28T14:08:00.000-07:00

Though it seems like a distant memory because of the sudden cold front that hit Minnesota this morning, I was able to soak up every minute of Saturday's gloriously perfect weather! Nine year old Dinomight participant Edward and his five year old brother Moises joined my cousin and I for a fun day at the Minnesota Zoo. The kids loved seeing the flamingos, tigers, monkeys, bears, and sea otters, but their unanimous favorites were the prairie dogs. It was so much fun to hang out and enjoy what felt like an extension of summer. At one point as we were walking around the zoo Edward was talking about how much fun he was having and he turned to me and asked:

"Why do all the coaches love us?"

He seemed genuinely curious. I think I responded with something along the lines of how all the kids were so awesome that we can't help but love them, but his comment really struck me. Sometimes working with youth can be discouraging. You are often faced with a student who is living through really rough circumstances and when solutions to their problems don't come quickly, it's easy to wonder if you are doing enough. I think Edward's question really hit the core of DinoMights' greatest success: Something we are doing is making the kids feel loved.

I would really like to emphasize the word "We" in that statement. I have been tutoring Edward for the last couple of years, but he didn't ask why "I" loved him so much. He didn't ask why Rich, Leah, Scott, Eric, or the other Leah loved him so much. He referred to us as a community of people who care about him and his teammates. The community of caring adults that DinoMights provides for its students is so incredibly valuable. A popular ratio among youth workers used to be 1-7. If you--as one mentor--had seven students in your life that you were investing time into, you were a successful youth worker. However, the Search Institute did some studies recently and decided that the ratio needs to be flipped. To make the greatest impact, the real ratio should be 7 caring adults for every 1 student. I have gotten very close to Edward over the last few years and am excited that I get to continue being a part of his life, but I also recognize that he may face things that I am unequipped to respond to. For example, there will inevitably be times when he will need a male to turn to rather than a female. Being a part of a community means that I don't have to feel like I am investing into any particular kid by myself. I am a part of a team of people with different skills, talents, backgrounds, cultures, professions and personalities, who share the same goal of loving these kids and helping them to succeed. I felt that sense of community growing up in the program and those relationships with caring adults are still very important to me today. DinoMights provides that 7-1 ratio for kids. The kids can feel the love and are learning at an early age that they are valued. That says a lot.

Introducing Kelsey

2009-09-15T07:44:00.001-07:00

Hey Everybody!
My name is Kelsey and I am very excited to let you all know that I will be doing an internship with DinoMights this semester. I grew up in South Minneapolis and DinoMights has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. Both of my older brothers were on the very first DinoMight team back in 1995, and I joined the team shortly thereafter. Since then 4 more of my siblings have been involved, bringing the grand total to SIX Sundberg's who have proudly worn the Dinomight jersey. I have loved being a DinoMight tutor for the last three years and I can't wait to be involved in the other aspects of the program and learn more about what goes on behind the scenes at a non-profit. I am currently a full-time student at Augsburg College, majoring in Social Work and minoring in Spanish so this internship will give me the opportunity to expand my knowledge in both of those areas. I am so excited to see what these next few months will bring! :)

Introducing Pa Kou

2009-09-04T12:31:00.000-07:00

While we will miss having Leah Engelhart on staff, we are very pleased to introduce Pa Kou Yang as the new Program Assistant at DinoMights. One of the greatest assets that Pa Kou provides to youth in the Phillips, Powderhorn, and Central Neighborhoods is that she is one of them! That's right, she grew up here and still lives here. Enjoy reading what Pa Kou herself has to say about her new position at DinoMights.

Hi,

I am Pa Kou Yang, the new Program Assistant at DinoMights. It’s really hard to find a work place that values the same things as you, and so I am blessed to have the opportunity to be a part of such an amazing organization where I can do two things that I love: educate students and serve God.

A little about myself: I was raised all my life in south Minneapolis right in the Powderhorn Neighborhood. I went to Minneapolis schools throughout my Elementary and High school years, and graduated from Augsburg College in 2005 with a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. My career as an educator really started when I landed a job with Park Avenue Methodist Church as a summer counselor. I needed a job and they needed counselors. Little did I know that God would use me in such an amazing way that summer. It changed my life forever. The church was a second home where I felt safe. At the end of that summer, I realized that my calling in life is to serve kids in the city.

Living in the neighborhood and being part of organizations like DinoMights has given me opportunities to minister to kids like myself. It’s been such a blessing to see how much these kids have grown over the years. Many of them are now starting their first year or second years in college, and many of them return to DinoMights or to Park Avenue Church to serve the community. I really believe that just like myself, many of them continues to participate because they want to show these children the love that was given to them when they were younger. Therefore, I would like to thank DinoMights for giving me the opportunity to touch the lives of kids and I look forward to meeting new people as well as learning more about Hockey.

Sincerely,

Pa Kou Yang

Thanks Leah

2009-09-01T18:11:00.000-07:00

Last week our Program Assistant, Leah Engelhart, transitioned from being a staff member back to being a volunteer. She spent the last two years as an employee of DinoMights, and now she is beginning the next phase of her career as a Student Teacher. We are so very thankful for her great work and her friendship to the kids, volunteers, and staff. We are also thankful that, while she won’t be working for DinoMights, she will still be close by. Leah has volunteered to continue loving DinoMights kids by serving as this year’s Girls Team Coach!

To honor Leah as she moves on, I decided to include in this month’s letter an excerpt from her personal blog http://celebratingthekingdom.blogspot.com. This entry really shows Leah’s heart for our kids and that she has truly embraced DinoMights’ philosophy of long term relationships.

Last week the DinoMights had their annual Academic Power Camp.

We had 18 new students attend the camp. Often when we recruit kids who are going into 2^nd grade, if their siblings are in elementary school we invite them to join as well. One of the new kids had an older 4^th grade sister who decided to join DinoMights. At Power Camp, the other 4^th grade girls were not being very inclusive during game time. They all attend the same school, and this new girl does not.

I have hope for these 4th grade girls . . .

I began tutoring/mentoring Lacy when she was in 4th grade. She is now going into 7th grade. This past week at camp she asked this new 4th grade girl to play a game with her. I observed this interaction and welled up with emotion. Throughout the week she continually included this girl. Lacy has 3 younger siblings looking up to her, but also many other eyes watching and admiring her actions. She is such a beautiful girl and I am continually grateful to have her in my life.

I love that Leah points out how thankful she is to observe growth in Lacy, and at the same time she expects growth in today’s 4^th graders. Leah gets it. She made a choice to love Lacy, and now she is watching Lacy love others. Not that Leah is the sole reason that Lacy made friends with a new student, it’s that love is something that you give away. And when you see someone that you love giving it away you can’t help but feel that your mission is being accomplished!

Dance Off: Part 2

2009-08-31T14:07:00.000-07:00

Last week we had such a great time on the ice with our special guest coach EJ. Eric Johnson, lead instructor for Impact Hockey, came out and gave our kids one of the best hockey clinic experiences we've ever had! Eric helped us out this week as a part of the Kelly Phillips Foundation effort to serve people and causes that Kelly Phillips would care for. Please visit the Kelly Phillips Foundation website and learn more about this special young lady.

One of the best things EJ brought to the camp was pure fun. He hooked up his ipod and we had several impromptu dance parties throughout the week. Here's some more viewable footage of the great fun!

The next viral video hit

2009-08-18T09:43:00.001-07:00

Props to Coach E.J. for making our practice so fun today. Today was the first ever DinoMights on ice dance party! Take a look and have a laugh.

I took the video on my phone, that's why it is small.

By the way, no one has guessed the special guest for our Nov. 16 fundraiser yet. If you look over the posts you will get all the clues. It's going to get easier and easier.

Next Clue

I am not human. Who am I.

Silver Birch Day 4

2009-08-13T14:46:00.000-07:00

Well we will be returning home tomorrow. Today is our last day of activities.

One thing that I am really looking forward to this year is sharing camp with my daughter Selah. Here's a few pictures of her from last year and a recent picture so you can see how much she has grown. I can't wait to post pictures of her from camp 2009! Stay tuned for those, they may appear on theHarman Family Blog next week.

A bedtime story in the cabin

Sitting in the bumbo in the cafeteria

Selah a year later excited to go to camp!

Silver Birch Day 3

2009-08-12T14:42:00.000-07:00

By now some of our boys will have caught creatures of all sorts and made them pets. The boys were not originally going to have sinks in their cabin again in '09, but it turns out that they do. So just to prove that the animals are real and are really living in the sink of the cabin, here's some photographic evidence.

Silver Birch Day 2

2009-08-11T14:40:00.000-07:00

Kathy smiles from the swing set at Silver Birch Ranch

Silver Birch Day 1

2009-08-10T14:30:00.000-07:00

I won't have access to the internet from camp, but I can schedule some posts ahead of time. So each day expect to see some pictures from Silver Birch '08. Enjoy the pictures, pray for us, and don't forget to try and guess our special guest for the fundraiser on Monday Nov. 16! The first person to guest gets a brand new DinoMights t-shirt. I promise the t-shirts are going to be very cool this year.

Francisco, Danny, Brian and Noe at Chapel with their counselor John

Ivan and Franco explore camp and discover horseshoes

Follow up Prayer Requests

2009-08-07T14:22:00.000-07:00

Thanks for praying for DinoMights.

Here's what I can tell you about our prayer requests:

1) We have a boy with a broken elbow. He will need surgery next week. He was supposed to go to Silver Birch Camp this week, and that is probably the biggest hurt he is feeling. Please pray for his surgery and for his feelings about missing camp.

2) A DinoMights dad has had surgery to relieve pressure in his skull. Right now he is being medically sedated. It sounds like all the brain scans have been positive, and the medical team will probably decide to wake him up in the next 24 hours. It is hard on the kids to see their dad this way. Pray for recovery and mercy on this family.

3) Pray for 25 DinoMights who will be at Silver Birch Ranch beginning on Sunday. They will be having a really great time. All the while, there are still concerns looming at home. Pray for us on staff as well that we can share the good news with our kids as we spend a week showing off God's love.

Prayer Requests

2009-08-06T14:24:00.000-07:00

If you are a person who prays, please pray for DinoMights. We always have something going on in some family's life that needs God's attention. Right now we have several important things to lift up.

• A boy who should be going to camp in a few days hurt his elbow pretty badly today. It will be a big disappointment if he can't go.

• The father of two of our kids is in the hospital right now. It sounds like he has had some sort of injury to the head. We don't know much, but please pray for him and the family.

• We have a teenage girl who is really struggling with a family situation right now. She is having some self-destructive thoughts and feelings.

That's just the stuff we're thinking about right now. There is plenty more that needs the merciful hand of God. God does love us, and he wants to be a participant in our lives. Praying is a way of participating with God in the lives of His global community. Please take this opportunity to lift up the lives of these DinoMights.

I want to know Wednesday

2009-08-05T12:49:00.000-07:00

1) I want to know what has come over the DinoMights that they are actually filling out their camp permission forms on time!

Leah and Mari with their cabin of Dinos at Silver Birch Ranch '08

On Sunday, we will leave for Silver Birch Ranch. We expect to take about 25 DinoMight to Northern Wisconsin for a week filled with fun and fellowship. For many years, we've partnered with the Park Ave Youth and Family Services to do camp for kids who have finished 3rd through 5th grades (If you are an alumni reading this, Silver Birch has replaced Honey Rock. Nothing against Honey Rock, the schedule just didn't work out to go there anymore).

So once again we set out on the road. We've asked the families to fill out the forms for camp and return them to the DinoMights office. Now normally when we do something like this, it requires multiple visits to multiple kid's houses. But, for some reason this year the kids have really taken the responsibility and turned in their forms. I guess the word is out: Camp is something that kids really want to go to.

Brian in a canoe

2) I want to know what interesting critters the boys will catch this year.

Last year it was raining during our night to make s'mores. So the boys made S'mores indoors in a room with a fireplace. The kids were all playing board games while enjoying their treats. The Dino boys said, "Hey look Scott, the turtle is playing CLUE."

"Oh, that's nice," was my first reaction. I thought they had found a turtle game piece from another game and were using it in place of Col. Mustard. Then I looked and saw this game piece moving on its own. It was in fact a real turtle. The boys named him Snappy, and kept him in the cabin sink along with about a dozen frogs. Some of the frogs were missing their legs. The boys explained that Snappy was eating them.

Snappy the turtle (Don't worry he was released back into the lake before we went home. . . I think).

The year before these same boys stole the show when they performed their sketch on the final evening of camp by throwing Crawfish into the crowd.

3) I want to know if camp baby can make a successful transition to camp toddler.

Selah discovering her hand as a three month old at Silver Birch Camp '08

Honey Rock and now Silver Birch have always had a strong family feel. Our main camp speaker, Chris McNair, has always brought his whole family to camp. John and Erin Foley used to bring their kids. Now, Kari and I get to bring our little girl, Selah, to camp. Although, she can only say a few words (relatively speaking, she's pretty verbal for her age), and although she can barely walk, she still has a ministry to the kids at camp. Kids see this sweet little baby, and just sense the gentle nature of a young life. They see her laughing the first laughs of a life and they can't help but be transported to an innocent place of peace.

This year ought to be a lot of fun for Selah. She was not quite four months last year. Now she can go swimming, visit horses, and play on the playground. Doing this trip together as a family is without doubt what I am most looking forward to.

Clue #5

2009-08-04T12:39:00.000-07:00

Pictured above is the "Hockey in the Hood Cup." It is the academic award given to the DinoMights students who show teamwork, positive attitude, and academic excellence at Power Camp and during the school year. It is also, the next clue to our special fundraiser guest on Monday November 16. If you've been reading the posts lately it should start coming together!

The first person to guess correctly by leaving a comment on the blog, will be the first to reserve a DinoMights 15th Anniversary Limited Edition T-Shirt!

More clues

2009-07-31T16:11:00.000-07:00

So far there haven't even been any guesses at to the DinoMights special fundraiser guest!

Give it your best shot. Leave a comment with your best guess. You could be the winner of a brand new, not even off the presses, DinoMights T-Shirt. You may even have the chance to stand in the presence of our guest.

Read through the last few posts to get the first three clues. Here is the next clue:

4) I'm kind of shiny

WHO AM I

Don't give up

2009-07-30T13:05:00.000-07:00

"Have Fun," Jose said to me in his gruff voice smiling ear to ear.

"You had fun this week," I said almost as a question to confirm that I understood.

"Yeah."

"You liked Power Camp and going to ValleyFair," I said, again in a question like way to make sure I understood.

"Yeah."

We were at the end of a long week, as far as youth work goes. Power Camp is a lot of work. It is a lot of work to coordinate academic lessons for kids ranging all the way from 1st grade to 8th grades, and make it fun. It is a lot of work to manage the transportation logistics of around 60 kids getting to and from camp everyday. Not to mention the actual youth work; when we are actually working with youth. It's about a 60 hour work week for us on staff.

So there we stood at the end of a long week, after a super fun day at Valleyfair (The premier amusement park in the state) ready to board a bus back to DinoMights' Headquarters. I'm not sure "Have fun" were the words rattling in my ears. It was something more like "sleep," or "Don't work tomorrow," or "I wonder if my family will remember me."

Jose is going into 4th grade. He doesn't say much, and when he does it can be tough to understand. He couldn't hear for the first few years of his life. What he did hear was mostly Spanish. He has had several operations since we've known him, and can hear much better now. He's learning a lot of English, and is less afraid of communicating. However, he's still pretty quiet most of the time. His facial expressions usually tell most of the story.

"Have fun," with an ear to ear smile says it all. Jose had it all last week. It didn't matter that he couldn't go in the pool because of his ears, and he had no idea how much work went into providing that fun time. But, in his own way he still said, "Thank you very much. You have no idea, Scott, what this means to me."

"Do not grow weary in doing good for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."

Power Camp

2009-07-21T17:34:00.000-07:00

Hello DinoMights blog readers. You're probably wondering where the Dino Blog has been over the last week. Well, we've been super busy preparing for Power Camp. Power Camp is our summer academic camp. We always try to pick a fun theme and learn fun stuff based on the theme. This year's theme is conservation. We are learning about how to take care of the environment and to be thankful for God's creation. Stay tuned this week and next to hear more!

Lessons in Youth Ministry: KAA You Know!

2009-07-09T15:08:00.000-07:00

"The right kids were there."

If you are an aspiring youth worker reading this blog remember that quote. Having the right kids in the right place at the right time is a huge part of doing good youth work. It is also a huge part of enjoying youth work.

Last week two vans full of DinoMights pulled into the parking lot in Minneapolis after a 10 hour drive all the way from Kids Across America Camp in Southern Missouri. The strange thing about it was that everyone was happy. Ten hours is a long time, and no matter what we do there's always a bit of "hockey smell" embedded in those vans. So why all the smiling faces?

The right kids were there.

There is a temptation to believe that more is better all the time, but it is not. Of course, we see the need. 37,000 people living in the Powderhorn, Phillips, and Central Neighborhoods and almost half are kids. Organized, safe, and constructive activities for those kids are more and more difficult to find. So one would be tempted to say, "Let's bring as many to camp as possible."

Here's the problem, and the important lesson for youthworkers: Each kid is a unique, special person with a complex web of factors influencing her/his life at any particular time. In other words, no program, camp, or activity is going to be right for all kids all the time. What was great for one kid may not be great for another. Those two kids are just too different they are not going to fit in the same box. Also, what was great for one kid last year may not be great this year. What's going on in his/her life right now changes what he/she needs today.

So when you go to KAA, on the border of Arkansas and Missouri, in the middle of the ozarks with kids that shouldn't be there you are not doing anyone any favors. It's not fun for you and it's not fun for them. Instead try to find that right mix of kids that is ready for whatever the event happens to be. It will be the most meaningful for everyone.

That's not to say that it is a failure if someone doesn't have a good time, or you should never bring a kid who is struggling on a trip. That may be the right thing at that moment. But, you as the youth worker are responsible for discerning that fact. If you are considering taking a youth on a trip and your youth worker instincts are telling you not to, or your time in prayer is giving you a bad feeling, then maybe there is something to it. It won't be the end of the world if someone doesn't go.

At any rate, this year the right kids went to KAA, and they had an excellent time. It was fun, meaningful, and it drew the group closer together as a community of faith. I'm especially thankful for the leaders on the trip: Eric, Candace, Lenny and Ellen (a last minute addition to our trip)! Thanks for the long drive, and for caring about our kids. They are good youth workers. I'm also thankful for the Spiritual growth we're seeing in the kids. Camp has been a huge influence on the lives of DinoMights over the years, and continues to be this year.

A couple of kids who didn't go to camp came to visit my office this week. Not going to camp has an influence too. The time I've been able to have with these couple that missed out on camp this year has been beyond valuable. I guess that's why I've come to this conclusion about having the right kids in the right place at the right time.

By the way the contest is still on. There have been no correct guesses about our coming guest. If you guess right you will have first crack at the brand new Dino Gear! It is going to be cool 15th anniversary DinoMights apparel, so read the clues and make a guess. Of course, you can also comment about the article as well.

1) I'm an important part of hockey history. I live in Canada, but travel a lot.

2) On my travels I've spent more time in cooler weather climates. On occasion, I've spent time in warm weather, but I can't swim. I have almost drowned a few times.

3) I have spent some time with the DinoMights in the past. Most recently we were in Detroit together, but I haven't been to a fundraiser for a while.

I want to know who wants to win prizes!

2009-07-08T08:28:00.000-07:00

Today's I want to know Wednesday is this:

I want to know who wants to win a prize.

Prizes are up for grabs!!! The contest involves guessing the correct identity of the special guest for the DinoMights fundraiser on November 16, 2009. Leave a Comment if you think you know. Here are your clues so far:

1) I'm an important part of hockey history. I live in Canada, but travel a lot.

2) On my travels I've spent more time in cooler weather climates. On occasion, I've spent time in warm weather, but I can't swim.

A Big Announcement

2009-07-07T07:34:00.000-07:00

Danny with inquisitive look, wondering who will be our special guest at the

2009 DinoMights Annual Fundraiser

If you want to get important and interesting guests to attend your events it is important to book them early. So, although it is only July 7, we have an important announcement to make about one of our special guests at the 2009 DinoMights Annual Fundraiser. The event will be held on November 16, 2009 at International Market Square. Guests will enjoy desserts by D'Amico Catering, a student led program, and a Silent Auction. They will also have the opportunity to get an up close look at our special guest.

Can you guess who the special guest will be? Leave a comment if you think you know. (No fair if you are on staff, on the fundraiser committee, or a close friend whom I have already told. If you know already just play along.) Here's today's clue:

1) I'm an important part of hockey history. I live in Canada, but travel a lot. Who am I?

We will reserve an apparel item from this year's fundraiser for the first person to guess correctly by leaving a comment. We will add new clues each day until someone guesses. (The apparel has not been ordered yet.)

2009-07-01T14:16:00.000-07:00

I want to know Wednesdays have often focused on the NHL. Today is the first day of free agency and our Minnesota Wild hero Marian Gaborik is off the market. He became a New York Ranger today. So here's a few questions for Gabby himself (Close caption to Marian Gaborik: If you are actually reading this please leave a comment. It would make this blog super cool.)

1) I want to know do you remember when the Wild went so deep into the playoffs in 2003 and you did so well?

My friend and Co-Squirt coach at the time, Benj Smith, and I watched most of the games together. We were both broken up with our girlfriends, so we spent the spring watching the Wild and healing from our break ups. It was a pretty special time. Thanks Marian.

2) I want to know if you noticed that we flew on the same airplane home from the All-Star Game in Atlanta?

We noticed you. It was quite a thrill to be flying home on the same flight as the person we had been cheering for in the game.

3) I want to know if you felt thanked for hosting us in your suite, Gaborik's Guests?

It turned out to be our Squirt team party. The kids loved it. They asked your agent what you like to do in your spare time, and he said that you like video games. They like you even more now.

Hockey in the Hood Day 4: Carlson Foundation and Lenny

2009-06-25T14:52:00.000-07:00

On the last day of hockey camp we had a visit from the Carlson Family Foundation. They support youth at-risk and mentoring programs. DinoMights fits within their guidelines, and they have been supporting us for the last few years. Periodically, granters like to visit to see first hand what an organization is like, and to get to know them better. On this visit they were hoping to meet a volunteer that grew up in the program. Initially, I was sure that Lenny would be there, but he couldn't make it to Day 4. I let him tell you why in his video.

The Carlson Foundation visitors were very touched by Lenny's words and story. We are very thankful for Lenny. He has been an excellent volunteer over the last year. We are also thankful for what God is doing in Lenny's life. He had some rough times over the years, but now he is in a very good place. He really is in a good place to be a mentor to younger DinoMights youth. In fact, he will be going to Kids Across America Camp this week as an adult leader. It is the first time that a former DinoMights participant has gone to this camp as a leader.

Lenny, we're proud of you! Have an amazing and Blessed trip to KAA!

Hockey in the Hood: Day 3 Nordy

2009-06-24T12:09:00.000-07:00

Hockey in the Hood Camp Day 3 was all about Nordy, the Mascot of the Minnesota Wild.

The kids got started with their usual skating drills, and then Nordy made his grand entrance. The response was not exactly what Nordy is used to. Let me put it this way. Most of the kids on this rink barely know what hockey is. They know it is on ice and they know you skate, but that is about it at this point. Moreover, even less of them know what the Minnesota Wild is (we're building a whole new fan base here at hockey in the hood).

So their actual response was more of an inquisitive stare than boisterous screaming. That being said they warmed up to Nordy pretty fast.

They were allowed to do a Question and Answer Session in which they could only ask yes/no questions. Most of the questions revolved around what kind of animal Nordy is. "Are you a fox?" one child asked.
Nordy shrugged as if to say, "I don't know."

"He doesn't know what kind of animal he is," I said.
The kids persisted. "Are you a wolf?"
"I don't know," Nordy shrugged.
"Are you a bear?"
"Shrug."

Later we split up into groups and played fun games. One group had a parachute, another got to shoot pucks into the goal against Nordy as the Goalie. Finally we wrapped up with a fun game of ships across the ocean. Nordy was "It" of course.

I had the idea that Nordy should stand by the door and kids could give him a high five on the way out. Here's what really happened: Kids piled up for hugs instead. They all fell over in a hockey heap. Oh well, the kids liked it.

On the way home I asked some of the kids what was their favorite part. One boy replied, "The parachute . . . and . . . The Bear!" Short pause, "No he was a beaver. Nobody asked him if he was a beaver. He didn't have a tail, and beavers don't have tails, so he must be a beaver."

"Actually beavers do have tails," I said. (I'm a member of the zoo: see http://scottandkari.blogspot.com/)

"No, he is a beaver," another child said, "and a bear, and a wolf. He's all the animals"

We didn't really settle on anything, but the last theory is pretty compelling. No matter what kind of animal our mascot friend may be I think 18 new DinoMights will definitely remember their first hockey experience for a long time.

Hockey in the Hood Camp: Day 2

2009-06-17T09:20:00.000-07:00

It was pouring rain for Day 2 of Hockey in the Hood Camp! The day began with Eric, Leah, and me carrying hockey bags up the stairs from our storage area to the DinoMights vans out in the rain. Leah, wore a rain coat. Eric and I were soaked.

Then at the arena we carried all those bags, plus sticks, plus other odds and ends into the arena. We had help, but we didn't want the kids out in the rain for any longer than they had to be. So we carried all those bags in through the rain. Leah had a rain coat. Eric and I were soaked.

In the end camp started on time and everything went smoothly from a logistical perspective. However, it got me wondering. How Much work really goes into making this camp possible. How Many total bags do we carry (Some people go to the gym to stay in shape, I carry hockey bags. You should see my trapezius muscles at the end of the hockey season. It will help me with those 70 push ups that I owe tonight!). What does it all add up to? So here's what I want to know this Wednesday:

1) I want to know math.

50 kids on the ice

18 New DinoMights

36 wobbly legs

About 20 kids I can't believe are not little Mites anymore.

About 2 that are now taller than me

12 kids who have grown so much that they have out grown their equipment

Infinite Smiles!

Looks like it adds up to something good!

Check the page tomorrow to see highlights from Day 3 and our visit from Nordy!

Hockey In the Hood Camp: Day 1

2009-06-16T13:15:00.000-07:00

It was a successful first day of Hockey Camp!

One thing that makes DinoMights great is the overall culture of love and respect. Our new kids picked up on that right away. Several of the coaches commented how quickly the new DinoMights caught on. Not just things on the ice, but off as well. They really seemed to catch on in the locker room, they were helpful cleaning up, and they behaved really well.

Night one had all the action that you would expect from brand new hockey players. Keep in might that many of the kids attending last night had learned skating, but not hockey. So we had many of the collisions resulting from new skaters who don't yet know how to stop, which of course led to the classic falls of small children trying to learn something new that warm our hearts every time.

But, I'd have to say the thing that stood out most to me was how well the new kids have embraced how DinoMights act.

This leads me to make 2 observations:

1) Kids do well when they have high expectations

We run a tight ship at "Hockey in the Hood Camp." That is what it takes to have a large number of kids sharing the locker rooms and the ice. Moreover, we believe that our students should get the same summer hockey clinic experience as those with the financial means to enroll in big time camps. So we expect kids to listen, we expect things to stay on time, and we have a plan B for about anything that could go wrong.

Here's how the kids respond: They thrive. Hockey is a safe place to be. There are clear boundaries and clear expectations. They know what to do and how to act. The kids don't have to be on the defensive, they don't have to "watch their backs", because they know that this is a place where they are loved and there won't be negative surprises.
(See Search Institute Assets number 16; Also see Thriving and Sparks)
2) Stereo-typing is not reliable

What I just said about expectations is actually true for all kids. It is true for any kids that are given that kind of opportunity. It really doesn't matter if they are Latino, Black, White, Rich, or Poor. Kids are kids. One cannot assume that just because we are 'Hockey in the Hood' we are also a group of unruly ragamuffins. Actually, many of us are ragamuffins, to borrow the term from Brennan Manning, however given an environment where we are allowed to Thrive we will all give our very best expression of joy to the world.

Hockey in the Hood Camp Preview

2009-06-15T09:13:00.001-07:00

Tonight will mark day one of DinoMights 'Hockey in the Hood Camp'. Kids will get a chance to do something fun and positive right after school gets out. Most importantly, 18 New DinoMights will get their first taste of ice hockey and the Dino family.

With so many new kids we had to make some schedule changes to accommodate everyone. So tonight will just be Mites and Mini-Mites (Those are the youngest groups we have. The new players are on Mini-Mites). Tuesday and Wednesday all the kids will be present, but thankfully we'll be able to use rink dividers courtesy of Sport Resource Group to help keep the age groups on their own section of the rink. Thursday will be just the Squirts and above doing one of their faviorite activities, Scrimmaging!

Over the next few nights all the age groups will get a chance to learn some skills and spend time having some "cold" summer fun. There are always crazy relay races and pure summer fun. We have a few special guest coming to visit this week as well. On Wednesday we will have Nordy, the mascot of the Minnesota Wild. On Thursday, friends from the Carlson Family Foundation will be coming to visit and learn more about DinoMights.

Blog Readers can expect to see some fun pictures and hopefully some fun stories over the next couple of days. Also, I owe 70 push ups from the Camp Scholarship challenge last week. Hockey camp will be a good place to do that. So Stay Tuned this week!

I want to know Wednesday

2009-06-10T14:29:00.000-07:00

1) I want to know if anyone out there has a 15 passenger van, mini-bus, or other large vehicle that they want to donate.

New Kid Update:

18 New DinoMights!!!

New Kid Update

2009-06-09T23:59:00.000-07:00

Wow, we have a lot of new kids.

It is kind of blowing my mind. Actually, having two Learn 2 Skates is really going to change our cozy year round schedule. I mean, we are going to have to get some more ice time, and more volunteers, and more staff, and more vehicles, and more . . . well you get the picture. It is a good problem to have when God provides beyond your own imagination. (Eph. 3:20-21)

15 New DinoMights!!!

. . . and a few more about to sign up too.

Graduating and Growing Up

2009-06-08T19:10:00.000-07:00

James with his mom and diploma

"I'm James' mom."
I hesitated. I mentally went through all the names of kids on the team. No James. Noticing my confusion, James' mom said, "Paco."
"Oh, Paco! Yeah, he's great. We're so glad he's on the team."
That was January of 2001. It was my first year coaching at DinoMights. All the kids were new to me, but I thought that by now I knew all their names. As it turned out, I'd gone two months coaching the team before I found out that Paco's real name was James. And, as it turned out James/Paco and I got to know each other pretty well since then.

James was in fourth grade when I met him, just a young boy. That summer at KAA I remember playing basketball with him during free time. We played on the 7 foot hoop. I suppose it was more his size then. During that camp, James heard the good news about Jesus and believed it.
He has always been one of those kids that made me remember why I was doing this job; why DinoMights was a good thing; most of all why caring about people is a good thing. During his sixth and seventh grade years he was part of a group of three boys that got together with me weekly to have fun and learn Bible Stories. We alternated between acting out the stories like a play and talking about the stories over smoothies from Sola Squeeze. He was a Willie O'Ree All-Star as a seventh grader. He read scripture at my wedding as an eighth grader.

In high school, James excelled at Football. He was a top 10 wide receiver in the State of Minnesota last year and featured in the Star Tribune. He was also the captain of his team. When he was elected Homecoming King all the kids were calling him "King James." He humbly replied, "Jesus is the real king."

James with his dedicated tutor, Leah

Last night was James graduation. At first I didn't think I could make it, but Kari reminded me of something that James' mom said a year ago. She said, "I want you all [coaches, tutors, etc.] to be at James' graduation. You've all been a part of the family that helped me raise my son."

How could I ever miss this?

He walked in with his class looking more like a young man than the fourth grade boy whose name I didn't know, with the biggest ear to ear grin. When they announced his name, it was by far the loudest cheer of the evening, as friends and family all celebrated the monumental moment.

I cited James Walsh of the Star Tribune last week who said in June 2007 that 58% of African Americans do not graduate from high school in Minnesota. The figures are even more grim for African American Men like James. Graduation from high school really is a big deal. The difference this event will make in the future of a young man like James is enormous.

Today, I got to speak to James on the phone. I asked him how it felt to cross the stage. He said, "I felt pretty grown up."

Closed Circuit to James: You will have more growing up to do. But I agree, I think you've grown up, and I was very honored to be a part of that process.

Congratulations Paco!!!

New Kid update

2009-06-04T20:14:00.000-07:00

I have a really great story to tell. Tonight I went to James' graduation! I'll tell more about what it meant to be there tomorrow, and I'll post pictures.

In the meantime, here's a new kid update:

we are up to . . .

10 New DinoMights!!!

These are all from families that participated in Learn 2 Skate.

Soaring Penguins Graduating from High School

2009-06-03T12:20:00.000-07:00

Bill Guerin of the Pittsburgh Penguins poses with DinoMights at the 2004 All-Star Breakfast

On previous "I want to know Wednesdays" I've been asking a lot of questions about this year's NHL Playoffs. I want to let you know that I have decided on cheering for the Pittsburgh Penguins. Since my hometown team is out, most of my playoff support decisions are based on DinoMights relationships. I was really pulling for Willie Mitchell and Vancouver (even though they are a rival of the Wild) because Willie was a good friend of our program while he was here. They lost, so I had to find a new team. The Penguins vs. Capitals series was an absolute gem, and I started pulling for Alex Ovechkin and the Caps. There is a great video on NHL.com of Ovechkin visiting our friends in the Hockey is for Everyone Initiative, Fort Dupont Hockey Club of Washington D.C.. Alas, they lost too. Finally, my choice came down to this: do I root for Detroit, because we visited Detroit for the Hockey the Hood Tournament. Or, do I go with my gut and cheer on the young Pittsburgh Penguins that everyone seems to think are the future of the NHL? Then I remembered, "Bill Guerin of the Penguins posed for a picture with some DinoMights during the 2004 All-Star Weekend in St. Paul, MN!" That clinched it.

And that leads to my questions for the day . . .

1) I want to know how high these kids can soar!

Pictured with Bill Guerin are Tryphena, Rhomina, Jessica, Cesar, Kelsey, Rhobelle, and Aaron. They are 19-21 years old now (I can't believe it). Every single one of them has graduated from high school. Six of them have attended some kind of college or university (If any of you are reading, leave a "where are you now" on the comments). One is abroad doing military service. They are working, serving, valuable members of their communities!

2) I want to know why beautiful kids like these are the exception rather than the rule.

I often quote an article titled Mixed Reviews for State's Graduation Rates, by James Walsh from the Minneapolis Star Tribune (June 12, 2007) in my grant applications. According to Walsh less than 10% of non-high school graduates earn more than $35,672 annually and most of those are concentrated in the lowest earning bracket with a median income of just $12,638. That is not a living wage for the 58% or African American and 36% of Asian students that do not graduate high school in Minnesota.

At the present time we are celebrating a 3rd straight year of 100% graduation. It was Cesar, Kelsey, Rhobelle, Aaron, and Rhomina's class that got us started on this perfect roll. It may not last forever, but I'm confident the last three classes are strong evidence that DinoMights provides some of the sparks that make a lasting impact.

New Kids

2009-06-02T14:46:00.000-07:00

I've been a bit under the weather so there was no new blog entry yesterday. Also, we've been very busy visiting the homes of new DinoMights!

If you've been following the blog you read a lot about Learn 2 Skate this spring. Well, now we are inviting many of those Learn 2 Skate kids to join our program year round. We actually go right to the homes of the kids, meet their families, and tell them that we are more than just skating lessons.

It is so fun to see the joy in the faces of the kids as the recognize us. "Hey! You are the skating guys!"

The current count of new DinoMights is:

6 New DinoMights

We'll keep you updated over the next few days. Also, I'll keep the giving widget up for supporting camp scholarships until Friday. In fact, I'll extend the push-ups challenge until then as well. I will personally do one push-up for every dollar raised online for camp scholarships!

Send Us to KAA Camp and Push Up Challenge

2009-05-29T17:31:00.000-07:00

KAA (A.K.A. Kid Across America) is a Christian sports camp designed for urban youth located on the border of Missouri and Arkansas. I can say a lot of great things about this camp:

1) They have a blob.
(If you've been there you know. If you haven't it's tough to describe)

2) Some of our kids get to go to new states like, Iowa and Missouri.

3) CHEERS
"WE DON'T NEED NO MONEY . . ."
"GET HYPE FOR JESUS . . ."

4) The perfect mix of being at camp and being in an environment that is meant for kids from the city.

5) They serve the adult leaders too.

The list could go on and on, but there is really one thing that makes this camp great: It is a place where many of our kids meet Jesus for the first time. Think of it, camp lasts one week, but the relationship they make there lasts eternally.

We'd love it if you would help kids go to this camp. We are bringing about 15 kids and 4 adult leaders. It costs $180 per person to go on this trip. In exchange for your generosity, me and some of the DinoMights boys will be doing one pushup for every dollar raised over the weekend. I'll post a video of the event next week. So far we have $50, which means we have to do 50 Push-Ups. I can do that by myself. There must be someone out there, who in addition to wanting to support great kids going to camp, is interested to see me and some Dinos do push-ups.

Use the widget to give through PayPal's secure site. Donations go to DinoMights, which is a 501 (c) 3 Non-Profit. All gifts are 100% tax-deductible. Just to be clear, there is no middle man, your gift will go straight to DinoMights. By the way, if you think this is a really great cause then you can post the widget on your own blog page or myspace, or other site of your own to let your friends and contacts know about the cause.

Send Us to Hockey in the Hood Camp

2009-05-28T19:44:00.000-07:00

Fun

That's about all there is to it. Fun.

When School is out kids have Fun.

The question is how.

Hockey in the Hood Camp takes place the first week after school gets out. We like to have a summer kick off event like this to provide positive fun right away on summer break. Also, it is a great way for the Learn 2 Skate kids who are just joining DinoMights to begin their DinoMights career. After all they are fresh off of the Fun experience they had learning to skate, now is the perfect time to have fun beginning to play hockey, and being in a safe positive place with safe positive friends and adults.

The Camp is our own summer hockey clinic provided to all the DinoMights participants 8th grade and below. We spend most of our time teaching and learning hockey skills. We do our best to make it every bit as enjoyable and valuable as a high end summer clinic at a cost of about $30 per kid. (A high end clinic in Minnesota may cost around $400).

Most of all, Hockey in the Hood Camp is Fun. We always do some fun relay races. Last year we did a tractor pull. Kids were paired up and they had to pull their friend along with their sticks. We also had a parachute for the mites. The kids could skate under the chute, throw their gloves on top, it was a lot of fun.

This year we are going to have a special visitor to our camp. Nordy, the mascot of the Minnesota Wild is going to come and have a Fun time with the DinoMights.

The point is that it is good fun, safe fun, positive fun, fun in a caring community of friends and adults. Kids will find fun one way or another. For the kids that come to Hockey in the Hood Camp we know that they are getting their summer off to a positive, safe, Fun start.

Thanks for reading, and please consider sending a kid to Hockey in the Hood Camp this summer by making a tax-deductible gift on the giving widget on the right side of the screen. If you really want to have Fun with this mini-FUNd drive, then you can post the fundraiser widget on your own page too!

Send Us to Camp!

2009-05-27T17:43:00.000-07:00

Even though it is not hockey season, our program doesn't sleep. Or rather, we sleep in a lot of different places . . . like CAMP! And we need your help to get there.

We are discreet about fund drives at DinoMights. There are only two times a year we make major appeals to the public for funds: at our Annual Fundraiser in the fall, and just prior to summer in support of Summer programming.

So the blog will be the epicenter of a mini-fund drive to help SEND DINOMIGHTS TO CAMP!!!

Over the next week I will be highlighting DinoMights summer opportunities. We'll be talking about what the kids will be doing, what it means to them, and what are the costs involved with those activities.

We are hoping to raise $15,000 towards the costs of summer programming (excluding salaries and administrative costs). It would be great if us blog readers could help raise a portion of that amount.

All week there will be a widget displayed on the right side of the blog screen. You can click on the widget and make a tax-deductible donation directly to DinoMights, which is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization. Also, if you really want to get involved, because you really think DinoMights is making a difference in the lives of urban youth, you can share the widget with your friends and networks.

We are going to make it worth your while to give this week too. DinoMights are going to give you incentives everyday. So not only will your dollars be sending the kids to camp, but they will be earning special surprises too!

Sparks

2009-05-26T17:20:00.000-07:00

A group of urban kids search the ground of the forest for twigs, dry branches, and logs. They bring them to the fire pit. The stage is set for a campfire at Kids Across America Camp or Silver Birch Ranch. All they need now is a spark to bring the fire to life. The fire brings joy and beauty to the campers as they play games, tell stories, and roast marshmallows. Now some of those kids have everything going for them, and some have lots of issues to overcome, but they are all like that pile of wood waiting for a spark.

I got a call from Rhobelle this spring. He’s a sophomore at Hamline University, and he wanted to know if he could interview me for his Non-Profit Management Class. So he came over and we had a wonderful discussion about the nuts and bolts of directing an organization like DinoMights. Later in the Spring, Rhobelle called again to ask if he could use some of the knowledge he’d acquired in his class to write a grant for DinoMights.
I said yes, and got on the phone with a contact at one of the foundations that has supported DinoMights. I told this contact that an alumni of the program wanted to submit a grant on DinoMights behalf. He hought that was awesome. He couldn’t stop talking about how DinoMights gives kids such amazing chances to learn and do things that help them grow up into self-assured competent adults. It’s kind of like kids get exposed to things that can be a spark to light up their future.

After we were done with Rhobelle’s interview we chatted a bit about his life and about DinoMights in general. He said that he would love to go to camp again if he could. He has said before that Summer Camp was his greatest memory of being in DinoMights.
We thought we were just bringing Rhobelle to camp for a time to do crafts, sports, be outdoors and learn about God. We thought that all those Summer Academic Power Camps he went to were just a good chance to learn about science, history, and spend some time reading. We didn’t even realize that all those things were sparks that would begin a fire in a young man to share his joy and beauty with the world.

The DinoMights summer of 2009 is upon us. The biggest group of kids in our history just completed Greg Carroll Learn 2 Skate. Some of those young first graders will join us this summer for “Hockey in the Hood Camp” and our “Academic Power Camp.” It’s our hope that one day they will be fine young adults like Rhobelle, discovering interests and gifts that they can share with their communities and families. So we will think of our work this summer not just as a good way to pass the time between school years, but rather as fire building so that our DinoMights can one day go and be light to the world! (Mattthew 5:14-16).

Sparks: Part 1

2009-05-22T13:53:00.000-07:00

Pictured above is a Cheddar Burger with Balsamic Onions. At first glance you might think that it is just a plain old cheese burger. You also might think, "What is that doing on the DinoMights blog?" Well there are several reasons.

First, it is because I am on vacation for Memorial Weekend. When I go on vacation this is what I like to do: Grill. And, when I am on vacation and have the time I don't grill up just any old plain thing. I like to get creative and see what amazing and unique flavors can be brought out of the food cooked on the grill, which brings me to my second point.

The kids of DinoMights are not unlike that burger. People may look at them and quickly make a value judgement like, "Oh it's just another cheesburger." However, if you pay closer attention, if you take the time to really taste, and get to know our kids you'll see: Those are grilled onions on top of that burger with balsamic vinegrette added for just the right flavor. Also, that is chipotle ketchup that gives this sandwich a smokey kick. It's not just a plain old burger.

However, it may have started out in the usual way. It was essential ground beef, raw onions, bread, etc. It needed to be cooked, and in order for the food to be cooked it required a spark to light up the grill.

Cutting edge research by Dr. Peter Benson of Search Institute indicates that it takes a spark for kids to thrive and flourish. Our DinoMights kids are not just statistics in a poor neighborhood. Moreover, we need not measure their success by what they "don't do" (they don't use drugs, they don't join gangs, etc.) Rather, they are beautiful unique people that have something to offer the world. That beauty comes out when something or a group of things act as a catalyst to launch a young person's pursuit of purpose.

Over the next few weeks on the blog I want to be talking about Sparks at DinoMights. What kinds of DinoMights activities are sparking kids to their purpose, and what can we do to keep providing those sparks.

In the meantime, I've got to go eat that tasty burger!