Why Do I Care About the Mallory Gaston Foundation?
I care deeply about the Mallory Gaston Foundation because I am concerned about the future. I want our youth to have alternatives to the challenges they face today and provide them with opportunities to choose a different, positive direction.
I have immense respect for Mallory Gaston, the creator this Foundation. Mallory exemplifies how one can choose an alternative to traditional paths, paths that lead to lead to self-reliance, economic security, and self-confidence. The MGF embodies entrepreneurship, supports mental and physical health, and gives young people the chance to build stable financial and strong physical lives for themselves.
Personal Impact
My perspective was profoundly changed when Mallory began asking me tough questions. Although I didn’t grow up in an environment with extreme inequities - I attended public high school and sensed that something was wrong. But I sensed how challenging life could be when faced with traumas that are out of your control. I did recognize that access to education was and is a first step in addressing many of these issues, but what is different about Mallory is that he understands that without the emotional intelligence to navigate society - young people do not have the most crucial solution to many of these issues.
Why is the MGF Personally Important to Me?
I've known Mallory for over six years; we met through a mutual friend when Mallory instituted the athletic program at the Academy of Art University creating and leading the physical fitness department.
I’m not a person who wakes up in the morning and says, “Yippee, I’m going to work out today!” I work out to build a strong base for a healthy lifestyle. Mallory inspires that in people.
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I came to appreciate working out more as I aged. It helped me stay involved, youthful, centered, strong, balanced, and mentally open. Though I was already active with bootcamp and hiking; many years of yoga, jogging and personal trainers I realized I was thin, but I needed to build muscle. Mallory’s approach to personal training, which I experienced through 1:1 sessions - was different. He engaged and pushed me, helping to strengthen both my body and mental resilience in ways I hadn’t thought possible.
Mallory’s dedication to personal training and his unique approach inspired me to fully commit to this practice. His ability to move mountains with sheer determination is why I am on the board of directors of MGF. This Foundation offers incredible opportunities for youth because of Mallory's brilliance. This determination is demonstrated by his journey and where he is now. He's an ideal role model for young people. He welcomes everyone, he is there for you. He is there for the community.
Why Mallory is Inspirational
Mallory is an inspirational figure because his energy, commitment, and devotion lifting everyone around him. He encourages intellectual curiosity by presenting multiple perspectives. His thoughtful nature and intelligence are qualities I deeply admire. Mallory is continuously thinking, questioning and driving the Foundation’s mission in a forward motion. I tell him how much I love smart people and how brilliant he is - and he doesn't even hear it. He just keeps thinking.
The Importance of the MGF
The MGF is vital because it nurtures the potential of our younger generation, investing in their hearts and minds, and cultivating a resilient and strong community. By providing tough guidance and unwavering support though the MentorUp! apprenticeship, the MGF encourages youth to become self-reliant, compassionate, and engaged individuals. As these empowered young people grow, they contribute positively to society, creating a tapestry of positive change and hope for our shared future.
The Foundation's core philosophy revolves around self-reliance, inner strength, and adaptability. These principles guide every project and initiative, seeding potential for transformation that will open into opportunities for future generations.
The Role of Mentorship
Mentorship is at the heart of the MGF. Mallory crafts tailored solutions in the MentorUp! program for each young person, ensuring that every initiative addresses their unique needs, aspirations, and potential. This personalized approach makes the MGF a space filled with opportunity and hope, guiding youth toward their achievements and making it an indispensable part of their growth and self-discovery journey.
Nurturing Emotional Well-Being
The MGF prioritizes emotional well-being alongside knowledge and skill development, aiming to create self-sufficient, economically productive young adults. Using the DB Emotional Intelligence curriculum, Mallory fosters a sense of belonging, resulting in shared responsibility and collective community impact.
A Call to Action
To Our Youth: You are the architects of tomorrow. The MGF stands as your support, ready to amplify your aspirations and gifts. Seize this opportunity to connect, engage, and utilize the resources available to you. Your ambitions are attainable, and the MGF is here to support your greatness. Pass those certifications and being your career!
To Our Donors: Your generosity fuels our mission. By supporting the MGF, you are investing in human potential. Your contributions build the foundation for transformation, providing the next generation with opportunities to improve themselves and society.
Conclusion
By supporting the MGF, we are not just changing individual lives; we are shaping a brighter future for humanity.
Tony Wolfson
