From Lansing to PBS KIDS–We Did This Together

I've replayed it in my mind at least a dozen times since June 30th.

The room full of families, and the kids deep in concentration over money games. The look on Madeline's face when she saw her community gathered–for her. 

A few weeks ago, we hosted a watch party to celebrate Madeline's feature on America's Awesome Kids, a brand-new PBS KIDS series spotlighting remarkable children from across the country. And Lansing? You came through in the most beautiful way.

What the Night Looked Like

Families of all ages filled the space. Kids got hands-on with interactive money games that made financial literacy feel like–well, fun. WKAR generously provided everyone with free books and swag. There was delicious food, there were laughs, and there was community.  

When everyone gathered to hear the Mayor's remarks and to watch Madeline on screen--I can't fully describe what that felt like. But I know every parent in that room understood it.

We also got to share some exciting news with the room: Mayor Andy Schor had officially proclaimed June 30th as Piggy Bank Pathways Day in the City of Lansing–and that proclamation is now framed and will soon be hanging on my wall. Getting to announce it surrounded by our community made it that much sweeter.

Why Community Moments Like This Matter

One of the things I talk about often in my work is that money is just one of the currencies we spend. Time and energy matter just as much–and when a community chooses to spend both showing up for a child, that's an investment that pays dividends for life.

Madeline will carry this night with her, and so will I.

Missed It? You Can Still Watch.

Madeline's episode of America's Awesome Kids is available now. Watch it, share it, and let it remind you that extraordinary things grow right here — in our city, in our families, in our kids.

👉WATCH MADELINE'S EPISODE HERE

A heartfelt thank you to the vendors and community partners who helped to make this celebration truly amazing:

CC Balloon Twisting | Gier Community Center | Snow Stars | Taqueria Los Lobos | Just For Fun Ink 
BLT's Wearable Art | Paradiso Productions | LollyBean Balloons | WKAR | CASE Credit Union
Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan | Sylvan Learning | Constellation Cat Cafe | Consumers Credit Union | Gud Marketing

And to our volunteers--youth and adults alike--who jumped right in and gave so generously of their time: you are the heartbeat of everything we do. This community shows up, and we are endlessly grateful.

Thank you, Lansing.  From the bottom of my heart.  💛