Throughout our lives we are faced with many decisions and paths that will help shape the road we take in life. We are faced with adversity and pain, only making us stronger and wiser as we continue our journey. For some, the transitions are easy and thicken our skin, but these altering and at times unexpected journeys, can very well leave some confused and in the dark. For former Toronto Argonaut Orlando Bowen, he has found a way to use the adversity and problems he has faced in the past to create awareness and inspiration for today’s youth to overcome obstacles they may face in their young lives.
In 2005 the former CFL linebacker along side fellow athletes, piloted a leadership event that engaged youth and their parents both mentally and physically; later starting what would later become One Voice, One Team. This federally registered charity has engaged over 20,000 students in areas across South Central Ontario, ranging from ages 8-18. The program converts on-field performance and excellence into everyday leadership and positivity. Bowen and his staff remain active within the youth community in relaying positive and empowering messages, filling gaps for kids that may not be recognized otherwise.
For many of the youths, the transition from childhood into their teenage years and eventually early adulthood can be difficult and hard to cope with at times. One Voice, One Team gives kids a chance to see and hear athletes’ stories of struggles and the journey each individual took to become successful and happy with their lives which creates a connection for children who otherwise may feel alone or isolated.
“One of the most important things that people, young people in particular, need is hope. Hope is instilled when you may be going through some things and you see that someone else that has been through that and has come up on the other side and is contributing,” says Bowen.
“It creates understanding that the individual doesn’t have to be an isolated case, what I may be going through right now, someone likely may have been through worse and they’re not hanging their head, they are pursuing their passion,” he added.
One Voice, One Team also provides youth with a chance to overcome whatever problem they may face. By creating collaborative opportunities to support them by connecting individuals with food banks if needed, or providing an opportunity for employment through their summer camps, young people are able to understand what’s possible and are given a look at what they can overcome.
With care, creativity and empowerment; Orlando Bowen has found an effective way to bring the energy and excitement of football into the minds and everyday lives of young teenagers. His story of encouragement and hope is one that is motivating and inspiring for not only the youth of our society, but for anyone of all ages.
To learn more about One Voice, One Team; visit http://www.onevoiceoneteam.org/
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