March 15th is Incredible Kids Day, and we know a group of kids who can be described as nothing less than incredible: the Komen 3-Day Youth Corps! These courageous kids apply, are selected, and have to fundraise at least $500 to join us on event. While they’re on the 3-Day, their tasks can range from anything to helping pass out lunch to cheering on the tired walkers. On the 3-Day when you see a flash of yellow, you’ll no doubt see smiling kids, perking up everyone around them. On Saturday in Camp, our Youth Corps gets up and shares the compelling reasons why they wanted to be involved. This moment is no doubt always filled with a few tears and big smiles.
We asked our Facebook community to share a few stories about the Youth Corps they know and love. Please join us by sharing your own special Youth Corps story in the comments, and let’s give a round of applause to these incredible, caring kids!
Julie Jokinen The Youth Corps is amazing! In Philly as I was walking to the restroom at breakfast the kids were at their tables still a little bit sleepy. I yelled “Good morning, Youth Corps.” I got a small response so I said “You can do better than that!” so I yelled again and they all jumped up and yelled good morning.
As we were leaving to start day 2 one of the girls came up and handed me a ribbon; she said that they were given ribbons to give to someone that inspired them. She said I had the energy they needed that morning and she wanted to return the favor. Whenever I saw her the next two days, we would hug and check on each other.
Mandie Reid My son, Aiden Daly, was a first time Youth Corps member in Philly last year and it truly changed him (for the good) and changed me. I was a walker and was approached on numerous occasions throughout the event advising me of how Aiden was so kind, compassionate, helpful, sweet, etc. and not to mention how he really made walkers laugh and smile at times when they needed it the most. Additionally, I was told what a great hugger he was. Now, I know that he is all of these things but it was simply confirmed when my awesome pink family continuously told me so. Oh, and not only did he help my fellow walkers but he helped me when I couldn’t walk due the severe blisters on my feet on day 1 and he even put my tent up. Having him experience the 3-Day has allowed him to become even more understanding, loving, and empathetic. He now is interested in applying for not one, but at least two events this year because he wants to make a difference. He also now considers the 3-Day his family. Thank you to all for this.
Photo Courtesy of Mandie Reid
Dan Love It really was a special opportunity for our son Josh to be a part of the Youth Corps for the first time last year. As long-time participants, mom and dad would be away for the weekend in years past. Now he understands the power, beauty, and awesomeness of the event.
“His tent area felt just like home… stuff everywhere,” said Dad, Dan Love. (Photo Courtesy of Dan Love)
Linda Simons On day 2, I was sitting on the ground all alone at lunch on the Philadelphia 3-Day last year when this wonderful young man from Youth Corps came over and sat down to join me so I wasn’t alone. An incredible young man! Then two other Youth Corps members joined us. It was the sweetest moment of my weekend! We all had a great talk and I shared my story with them. I will be a 16-year survivor in August and it will be my 7th walk! Youth Corps members are so important and what an awesome experience for them all! Youth Corps ROCKS! Great job! Hoping to see you again this year, Justin!
Photo Courtesy of Linda Simons
Sherri Hallman My niece Bailey Winter was on Philly Youth Corps last year. The route had been changed to include a huge hill in Manayunk. Bailey found us at the pit stop right before the big hill on Day 2. She showed her Mom a “special” ribbon that she was supposed to give to someone who inspires her. Her Mom said “Oh are you going to give it to me?”. Bailey replied “No” and she got up and walked over to ME, pinned her ribbon on me and told me that I inspire her! I kept looking down at that ribbon the whole way up that hill and I kept on going until I reached the top! I just kept looking at that ribbon thinking “Well, I have to keep going because I can’t inspire my niece to quit!”
Knowing that the Youth Corps are our future makes us feel proud and grateful. See more stories from our 3-Day community here! Want your child or an incredible kid you know to be a part of this life-changing event? Hurry, applications for the 2017 3-Day Youth Corps end on March 15!
