“We look forward to increasing the effectiveness of our motivational teams, and we believe these additions will do just that”, says Vaden Earle, CEO of Absolute Leadership Development. “Our goal is to continue to inspire this generation with a relevant message that their lives have purpose and value”

The workshops and leave behind video curriculum are designed to facilitate discussion between students on issues that are fundamental to them. Global awareness sessions have a huge impact on the perspective students have of not only the world, but their own lives as well. Together, the package is a vital tool for schools that want their motivational and character education efforts to have a lasting impact.

The incredible news for schools is that in conjunction with the launch of Think Day, Absolute is fully sponsoring their services (that other organizations charge over $5000 for) with a donation based model of payment, so that all schools, regardless of budget or demographic, will be able to take advantage of the best student empowerment opportunity in North America.

Absolute is accepting bookings for the 2008-2009 school year and can be reached at www.thinkday.org or 1-866-432-4464

Click here for promotional brochure PDF! http://thinkday.org/thinkday.pdf

From: Daryle Wing
Re: Motivational Experience

We just had your show at our school, NBCHS, North Battleford, Saskatchewan, and just wanted to let you know how impressed we were with the production and all the members of the team. They were professional and put on a spectacular production for our students, who all enjoyed it and are asking for it back next year.

Please forward us when they will be returning to this area because we would definately want to have them return next year.

Thank you.
Daryle Wing
Vice Principal

“The presentation encouraged me to want to help more people and get more involved in making this school and community a more bully-free place.” B.

“Absolute talked about drug use but they didn’t tell us what to do with our lives. They gave us the information and hoped we’d make good use of it. That was good because if you tell a teen how to live their lives, they retaliate and usually do the opposite. The presenters were all young people so teens could connect with them as they had just gone through what we are going through now. They spoke to us like they were talking to a friend, which was very welcoming.” G. F.

“The presentation was a lot more real than lots of the other speakers we have had … They go through to more people because it was true and not as cheesy as other speakers we have had.” S. G.

“This presentation helped build our community by bringing us together to realize we are all important and can work together to help others within our community…I think we are lucky to have a community to go to if we have a problem.” A. K.

“Those people who told us about their experiences showed how much they care about others. They don’t want people to make the same mistakes they did. I found that the facts were the most shocking and got us thinking. These facts made us think about personal experiences or people we know. I was very surprised at the high percentages during the presentations. I think this was a good presentation and I hope they help people before it’s too late.” M. D.

“A lot of people were moved by the presentation which led to many discussions. Many said how it felt good to have similar situations in which they could relate to their own personal experiences, that they felt comfort in knowing they were not alone. Others felt that it was very motivational in the sense that you saw what these people were going through and how hard it was for them; it motivated some to perhaps help others out more, stand up for them, and even reach out to them. Some people even felt that, perhaps, if they were in the shoes of these people it would encourage them to be strong, there is help, and that things do get better. I never really heard anyone say that they didn’t like the presentation, even if it did bring up painful memories. Many enjoyed that it was very serious and straight-forward, not just another “cheesy” presentation.” B.

“The presentation for Absolute yesterday was very moving to me, and I really think it was moving to several other students too…I have always been the type who has wanted to go to a country that has been poverty stricken and make a difference. With the presentation, I now have the information to do that, and I plan to go on the Mexico trip n August, 2008. The emotion that was shown for Hero Holiday encouraged me that I can do it, and am going to.

“I also enjoyed the stats they had shown; some were extremely higher than I though they would be, such as the suicidal thoughts; it was something like every 1 in 10. I believe with known facts such as these, people can become stronger and work together as a group, and build a healthy, supporting community, and celebrate everything we should be thankful for, the key one being life. I also have to add “The Someone” band was very good and they are using their talent to make a difference. Overall, it was a very inspiring, do something with your life, type of presentation.” S. H.

“The presentation’s viewpoints brought a deeper understanding or appreciation to the audience by telling their own story. It was issues that kids today have and I felt that you could easily relate. I know it made people feel not so alone and that it wasn’t just them that was or is going through a tough time. The statistics that were shown really made me realize that drugs and alcohol, bullying and eating disorders among teens is high and that something needs to be done about it. The story about Ryan made me realize not to take life for granted and to always stand up for yourself and others. I thought it was an excellent presentation and that they should do it more often.” S. D.

“When talking to my friends some people decided that they liked the idea that the band sang such meaningful lyrics and that they could have possibly sung more songs. Others enjoyed that fact that the environment we were in wasn’t the usual lecture style and the way they set up helped to hold our attention much better because they had little bits of fun pieces in the presentation. Some enjoyed the fact that the people who spoke to us had actually been through a hardship in their lives and had enough strength to get over it and teach others. That fact helps to communicate with teens instead of us feeling that we are being lectured by people who only help youths in trouble. They are the ones who experienced it and therefore we don’t think that they have no right to be up there lecturing us.” C. L.

“A lot of viewpoints expressed in the presentation made it a lot easier to sit through without having my mind drift away to something else. If the whole hour was based on a single topic (as were some past school presentations) I would have felt bored and as though I was being told something I already knew. Therefore it was easy to not only pay attention but to keep interested as well. Also, having some of the presenters share their actual life experience gave the audience a deeper connection and a better understanding of the true effects of drugs, alcohol, and physical abuse. If they made up scenarios and simply just acted them out, I think the audience would have thought it was “cheesy” and turned their attention to an unrelated topic.” E. F.

“The show that you had at Portage Collegiate Institute was very well done. The fact that you had everyday people who went to the levels that ordinary people go to was a nice change from either people having not done anything, to people who went to the extremes. Statman was a very good way to bring in the serious points however… Overall, the performance was awesome, and I personally plan on looking into the ways that I can help the project move along. Thank you for your time.” M. C.

ONE: A Face Behind The Numbers

Written by our CEO, Vaden Earle, ONE: A Face Behind The Numbers, takes eleven chapters, and illuminates the injustices of the humanitarian crisis. Including statistics, real-life stories, and striking photography; bringing the numbers to life.

“So many of us here in the western world live our daily lives in a bubble. And in this bubble there is no slavery, no poverty; there is no famine or hunger. All of these things are in the past, they are just a myth. In the very least, they must have government aid… right? Wrong!! Vaden Earle has burst that bubble with this book. One: A Face Behind the Numbers is a reality check. These things do exist and are more prevalent than ever.”

Tomi Swick - Juno Award Winner
Warner/Chappell Pub. songwriter

“I’ve seen firsthand how the issues in this book are among the greatest challenges facing humanity. Vaden’s book is a strong introduction for anyone who wants to have an impact on the world around them.”

Dave Toycen
President / Executive Office, World Vision Canada

The book will be released on Dec 15 and will make an amazing Christmas Gift. It will be available in all good book stores for $24.99, and is available right now for pre-order on sale for $15.74 from www.amazon.ca, so make sure you check it out.

The book is printed on envirolux paper and all proceeds go directly to charity. Check out a sneak peak of the book at one.absolute.org

*We need your help to get the word out about this book: click this link to post this article to Facebook or Digg

ShareThis

Life is like an hour glass,
Slowly passing by.
and i wish it would sometimes speed up, but u guys changed me and now i never wish it to speed up, though i still need emails from u i’m doing great! tnx absolute tnx 2 u i can live without hating myself.

As our truck pulled once more into the village (more…)

We have some exciting job position openings for dynamic young adults that love to make a difference and enjoy new challenges, experiences, and travel. We have immediate openings for Road Team Assistants and Road Team Manager(s) for our Canadian school tours. If you are interested in these opportunities or have questions, please contact Christal Earle at christal@absolute.org, or (905) 777 1662, or on Facebook:

Road Team Assistant

We have openings for Road Team Assistants for our Feb 1 to May 30 2008 Canadian school tours. Here is a brief description of the position:

• Qualifications:
  • Good Public Skills: willingness to share your story and speak in front of crowds
  • Team Work and Interpersonal Skills: able to work well as part of a team and interact maturely with other team members
• Compensation:
  • In addition to a small stipend salary, we will provide free housing while local and cover all travel costs while touring.

Road Team Manager

We have a job position open for an individual (or possibly married couple) to lead one of our road teams that performs motivational presentations in schools across Canada. Here is a description of what we are looking for in this position.

1. Personal Skills
   • Ability to think and learn independently
   • Major adaptability and desire to learn and enjoy new situations and challenges
   • Have a philanthropic world-view instead of self-centered world-view (desire to use your life and sacrifice to help others less fortunate)
   • Good sense of humour
   • Desire to travel
2. Strong and mature interpersonal skills
   • Ability to genuinely care and listen
   • Make people feel significant
   • Very positive thinking and speaking. Negativity from leaders will destroy team morale.
3. Dynamic public skills
   • Comfortable in front of large crowds
   • Ability to speak with passion and conviction, and tell an engaging story
   • Ability to “cast vision” and promote and represent Absolute’s vision effectively
4. Team Leading Skills
   • Take responsibility and assertively (not aggressively) take charge in tough situations.
   • Ability to resolve conflict and remain objective and rational
5. Technical Skills
   • Basic knowledge of Audio and Visual Equipment is helpful
   • Problem solving skills
   • Above average computer skills an asset
6. Experience
   • Have previous experience in a leadership position, team management and public communication.

By Scott Rosts
West Lincoln
Jun 15, 2007

SMITHVILLE — Christal Earle wants youth to know they can make a difference.

The co-founder of Absolute Leadership Development, a Hamilton-based charity that encourages hundreds of students to engage in humanitarian relief work, says youth need to understand that they can follow their “dream of what (they) want to be and do”. Earle recently visited South Lincoln High School in Smithville to spread her message during an assembly presented by the Youth for Change.

“You and I can make a difference,” Earle told the students and special guests from organizations such as Grimsby Life Centre and International Justice Mission.

After a tumultuous time during her youth growing up in Saskatchewan, Earle said one day she decided she wanted “something more”. Looking around the world today and some of the global issues such as aids orphans and children dieing from starvation, Earle said her and her husband Vaden “decided we wanted to do something about it”.

From there, Hero Holiday was born. The program provides opportunities for high school students to participate in a humanitarian relief project by bringing practical assistance to those living in extreme poverty. Activities include everything from building homes to distributing supplies to working with children at risk. Last year they even built a school.

“People like you and me are going to Third World countries and making a difference,” said Earle.

The stories, she admits, are touching and their outlook on life changes as they see first-hand what people living in other parts of the world go through.

In 2005, the first year of Hero Holiday, about 180 students went to work with Haitian refugees in the Dominican Republic. She said the refugees lived in a garbage dump, a site that “blows your mind”. She warned the students to ensure they wore their shoes while spending the two hours with their refugees there, so they would remain safe while walking through the dump. When the time was over, she noticed one student wasn’t wearing their shoes. She looked around and discovered none of the students had their shoes anymore.

“Every one of the students that day gave their own shoes off their feet to the refugees living there,” she said. “They made a difference.”

Earle challenged students to get involved and “make a difference”. She said programs like Hero Holiday are an “invaluable opportunity” to show how lives can change and provide “brand new beginnings” for those in impoverished countries.

Opportunities exist this summer, she said, with Hero Holiday. Upcoming trips include the Dominican and Mexico. Information on the organization can be found at http://heroholiday.absolute.org.

“You will never regret it,” she said of the experiences.

For this advertising campaign we wanted to try a different approach- addressing a nice cover page to the secretary (a.k.a “most influential person in the school”) to get them to sweeten up to us and pass on the info to the proper contact. If nothing else, hopefully they get a bit of a chuckle out of it. We thought we would take this route so that the school will realize that it is a legitimate fax before tossing it in the trash.

We find that in sending faxes and making phone calls to schools that is really easy to get mistaken for telemarketers or solicitors and to be treated coldly because of that. We are now trying to get across to schools that it is actually the opposite: as a non-profit we are financially giving a lot more to schools than we are receiving (see pricing here) . Like most educators, we do what we do because we care about students and believe in them - enough so that we a willing to send the odd “junk” fax to a school to be able to reach more of them with a message of hope.

On Tuesday, May 22 students in grades 7 and 8 from Virden Junior High as well as Elkhorn and Oak Lake schools had the chance to watch a multimedia presentation by the Absolute Leadership Development. This non-profit organization carries the message that every student’s life has value and that their generation can make a positive difference in the world, to schools across Canada. (more…)

I am pleased to be able to offer a letter of support, praise and endorsement for the Absolute Leadership Development school assembly presentation.

As a small school, our funds for bringing in professional presentations for our students are limited. For this reason, we must be very prudent when it comes to booking performers, speakers and other assembly professionals. We hope that all of our bookings will show a maximum of value for the money we pay.

I can state categorically that the Absolute Leadership presentation was ‘absolutely’ the best presentation of its kind that we have ever had at our school. (more…)

I would like to pass along thanks to Absolute for providing seven energetic and thought-provoking shows to seven different Saskatoon high schools. I have received several positive comments from principals indicating that student reaction was very positive.

I would also like to thank the two teams who ‘did’ the shows in Saskatoon. They were great to deal with, very accommodating, and obviously love what they do.

I would certainly recommend Absolute to other school groups or police agencies if required.

Thanks again, and all the best for continued success!

Sincerley,

Sgt. Brent Penner
Crime Stoppers Coordinator
Saskatoon Police Service

I just wanted to write you to let you know how impressed our staff and students were with the muli media presentation that your people did for us on April 27, 2007. The title of the show, “Wake Up!” said it all. From the moment that the presentation began until it ended an hour later, our students were ‘riveted’! Junior high school students are a tough audience at the best of times. Your performers had our 500 students soaking up everything that they said and did.

We have had a number of similar presentations at D. S. MacKenzie over the past several years. Most of them have been very good. The “Wake Up!” presentation, however, was electric! The transition between one act to another was smooth but not slick. We had the strong feeling that we were in a conversation. It was comfortable and relaxed. Our students were immediately at ease.

The theme of the presentation was particularly appropriate, and resonated extremely with our young students. Asking young people to wake up to the incredible power they have collectively to change the world for the better is like rock music to their ears.

I would also like to mention that I greatly appreciated the friendliness and flexibility of the crew and performers. It was like having our own staff in the building. We would have them back again in a minute.

As I indicated on my recent fax to you, I would ask that you contact me in late August 2007 to make the arrangements for Absolute to return to our school in the Spring of 2008. It will be a much anticipated event.

Yours truly

Calvin Jensen, Assistant Principal

To Whom It May Concern,

On Wednesday, April 18th, Christ the King students were treated to a special multi-media presentation performed by Absolute, a group that travels all over Canada to speak to teens about critical issues such as taking drugs, alcohol, pre-marital sex, abortion (editor’s note: we actually don’t speak about abortion, see our faq’s as to why), and bullying. This group was brought in to kick-off our Catholic Education Week this year where the theme centers on being created in the image of God. Absolute is a group that speaks to teens about the critical issues that matter to them most and does it on a level they understand and can relate to. The message is exactly the same as our theme this year - one that emphasizes the uniqueness and dignity of each person.

As the group began their presentation, the students listened closely as various members of the group spoke from personal experience on several major issues and came to understand the message being delivered…you have a life to live and that every part of what makes you unique is for a reason…a purpose! You can get through anything as long as you know how special you are and believe you can make a difference by knowing this in your heart. Numerous students were drawn to tears as story after story directly related to what they have been going through in their own life.

But the event was not just about connection through story telling, but also by connection through music as a touring band called Beauti from Trail, B.C. performed three of their songs during the presentation. The band totally ‘rocked the house’ and the students not only enjoyed the music but also appreciated the sincerity of the lyrics in their songs. In addition to the band, the group utilized videos that depicted the different kinds of wonderful opportunities that the students have to make a difference (as youth) in our world such as Hero Holiday which is an opportunity to join other youth in building new houses and buildings in poorer countries like the Dominican Republic and Mexico. World Vision sponsoring was also offered to kinds along with a video clip that emphasized that ability of the ‘disabled’ to overcome odds and make a difference.

The event was truly remarkable! Students and teachers were discussing the issues and what they experienced from the show long after they returned to their classrooms. As a teacher, I believe I have witnessed one of the most significant events in our school’s early history, one that has helped us further the process of growing a warm, compassionate, caring, and involved Catholic community here in Georgetown. Absolute really lived up to their reputation as they did an absolutely fantastic job!! I highly recommend Absolute in every respect.

Yours very truly,

David DeSantis
Principal

Absolute Motivational Experience came to visit our school in February 2007.  Not only were they energetic and willing to take the time to meet and greet the entire student body before the show, they were also outstanding while performing.  The band “The Reception” was great.  The lyrics of their songs are motivational, and inspiring, and the music uplifting and rocking.  The great CD’s and t-shirts were a big hit with the students.  However, the entertainment did not end there.  Along with the band the Absolute Motivational Experience Team had intermission presentations.

During the presentation the team would tell personal stories so that students could relate to them with more ease.  Not only did these stories open the floor for great discussion but a new sense of trust from the students to see that you can make it through everyday struggles.  The stats section with “Stat Man” was extremely humorous and offered great information on STI’s, bullying and sexual awareness.  This type of show not only informs students that they are not alone on these matters.  It also allows them to see that they don’t have to be part of the statistics because there is always someone out there willing to help them through their troubled times.  The team did a great job at motivating students to better themselves and to get involved in leadership activities in their school, community and to partake in the global community service which the group runs every summer.

Students left the presentation excited and ready to help those in need.  They were driven to start programs at the school to make sure bullying and a safe community continue to exist in our own school community.  Some students even joined the ranks of Absolute Motivational Experience to travel with them over the summer to help out a global community in need.  The people were great, the message was awesome, and the lasting feeling of excitement that the student body had is a true testimony of the team’s hard work and dedication.  Great Work Absolute!

Sincerely,

Kim Postma

Director of Leadership and Character Development

Our School experienced the ABSOLUTE presentation this afternoon. All responses were favourable, both from staff and students. The set up time and tear down time were professionally managed. The lighting, sound and video effects were top-notch. The message was positive.

Thank you from Souris Regional High School,

Sincerely,

Anna Mackenzie
Vice Principal

Souris Regional High School
P.O. Box 460
Souris, PEI
C0A 2B0
Tel: (902) 687 7130
Fax: (902) 687 7129

I would like to take time to express my gratitude and appreciation to the Absolute Team, who came to Macdonald High School in Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue on the 14th of March, 2007.  the team did a fantastic job.

The presentation itself was polished and professional.  the students were engaged throughout the entire hour-long presentation.

The message itself was solid, and hit home with a lot of the students at our school.

I highly recommend Absolute to any school who believes, as Absolute does, that their students can make a difference in changing our world, both today, and in the future.

Sincerely yours,

Trevor Potter

Senior Leadership Teacher

Macdonald High School

On behalf of Stonepark school, I am pleased to write this letter of recommendation for the Absolute Leadership Development Inc.  Today marks the third visit of this show to our school and we know every year that each show is as powerful and meaningful as the last.  The students are impressed with the music, the messages in the video presentations and the personal stories.  The theme this year which seemed to focus on human compassion, leadership and heroes is consistent with the messages we promote here every day in our school community.

The positive feedback from the students is a good indicator that this show has the kind of impact that lasts and gives us cause to pause and reflect on how we interact with each other every day and to make a difference for ourselves and others.

We also have students who are currently involved in the “Free the Children” campaign so it was a wonderful opportunity to support their efforts as well.  Overall, we are extremely pleased with the presentation and look forward to their return soon.

Sincerely,

Sharon E. Cameron

Principal

Stewarttown Middle School is a school of approximately 480 students in grades 6, 7 and 8. On January 26th, our entire student body, staff and several parents from our School Council were treated to the one hour Absolute Experience. Fifteen energetic and talented young adults presented strong messages about the powerful impact of making life choices with respect to drugs and alcohol, bullying and sexuality. The Messages were conveyed through a multi-media presentation including a live band, dancers, photo slide show and personal testimonials from the performers regarding difficult life choices they had personally experienced. The show included an interactive segment in which a teacher and two students became performers as well.

Although these messages are a part of the Ontario Curriculum through Choices Into Action, and we have been presenting these messages in various ways for several years, I feel the impact of the Absolute message was perhaps the most effective format yet, possibly because our students can identify so well with the performers who are not too far removed from their own age.

The Absolute crew was here on time, despite some very nasty and threatening weather. They came with an entire moving van full of multi-media equipment, lights , etc. and they set up and dismantled everything without disturbing the operation of the school. Several performers engaged in interactions with students during the recess break as well.

I recommend the Absolute experience to middle and high schools without hesitation.

Sincerely yours,

Odette Bartnicki,
Principal

Today, the students at F. J. Brennan High School were entertained by professional musicians and a staff of dedicated and personable individuals. The many comments made after the show indicated that both staff and students enjoyed the whole presentation.

The message and music made for a very enjoyable one-hour presentation.

We would recommend this group to any high school working on character building.

Yours truly,

Christena Slivocka

Head, Student Services

Absolute Productions brought a motivating, entertaining, thought provoking, assembly presentation to KLDCS that touched our students and staff. It inspired students to speak out about bullying experiences, investigate the, “hero holiday” possibilities, and commit to sponsoring a child … to think about the opportunities we all have to make a difference. One teacher went immediately to the net about the Dominican; students waited to talk to her after school to get more information, two students came to my office to talk about their experiences with bullies; parents called to ask about sponsoring children after their daughters expressed the desire to make the commitment …

This was a very effective presentation. Students returned in the evening to enjoy an impromptu concert. They were excited about this opportunity and it was a great experience.

I would highly recommend Absolute Productions presentations to all Intermediate/secondary schools and look forward to another tour.

Sincerely yours in education,

Linda Henry

Kirkland Lake District Composite School
60 Allen Avenue
P.O. Box 520
Kirkland Lake, ON
P2N 3J5
Tel: 705-567-4981
Fax: 705-568-8829

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your wonderful presentation in highlighting bullying, self worth and general citizenship through your band. It was an experience that both the students and staff greatly benefited from. Please accept this cheque as a token of our appreciation. The ones who have benefited from this gesture are obviously the students.

All of us at St. Ann School appreciate your generosity. We wish you all the best in the future.

Yours truly,

Mr. Vito. Picheca

Principal

We’d like to take this opportunity to write about the performance of the group Absolute on February 22, 2007.  We, the staff and students of Cadarackque Public School has the pleasure of watching this group perform many important facts of Bullying.  Their performance was informative and expressed a great motivational experience which allowed our students to comprehend the differences between children and how important leadership and self esteem plays in our lives.  We would recommend this performance to any school who may be interested.  A job well done!

Thank you on behalf of the students of Cadarackque Public School

Regards

Pat Cameron and Adam Stanley

Cadarackque Public School

Ajax Ontario

Thank you for participating in the eQUEST - pursuit of equality student conference on Nov. 29, 2006.  Your display booth played an integral part in the success of this event and the students’ learning experiences.

Over 400 students came together to learn more about the importance of global development and Canada’s involvement on the world stage.  Students were also given an opportunity to attend various workshops to get hands-on experience in developing a global mindset.

As a conference exhibitor, you made an invaluable contribution to this learning event.  the students and teachers who attended were grateful for the global development information provided by Canadian NGO’s at this event.  Many were eager to share this information with their schools.

Once again, thank you for helping to make our eQUEST conference a huge success this year.

Sincerely,

Danielle Wilson

The Notre Dame community would like to thank the staff at Absolute for their positive and relevant presentation.  The staff and students were very receptive to your statistics, ideas and possible solutions to the challenges and hurdles that teenagers face on a daily basis.  It was a motivational learning experience that will encourage and help them to be better students in the outside the school.

Thank you again for your presentation and for taking the time to remain in the school to discuss and thoughts or concerns our students may have had.  We hope that we can host your group again in the future and look forward to hearing from you again soon.

Sincerely,

Ralph Gabriele

Vice Principle

Notre Dame Regional Secondary School

604.255.5454

It gives me great pleasure to have the opportunity to write a letter of reference for Absolute Leadership Development Inc. I have worked closely with this organization for five years now and have a high level of respect for their organization, activities and staff. As far as I am concerned, this group is on the cutting edge in our nation and needs to make an appearance in all of our educational facilities, both secondary and post secondary. Their message is relevant and meaningful, while their presentation is extremely eye catching. If you are an educator, do your students a favor and utilize the services of Absolute Leadership Development Inc. in your school.

Sincerely,

Travy Dutka

Wow what a great performance and presentation!  It is not easy to perform in a school of 1,400 students.  The pupils in attendance were masterfully engaged as the show progressed.  The variety of entertainment and real life stories, I am sure assisted individuals in the audience to reinforce the positive aspects of their lives or change existing ineffective patterns of thought or behaviour.  You touched us in so many profound ways.  Students were not being preached to but rather educated in an interactive format, leaving all in a state of thought and the immediate need to share our perceptions after the performance.  The set-up and take down of equipment was completed with speed and care, I thank you for this.  I will as others have done recommend you to similar organizations.

One phone call I made after the show was to a mother of a student who missed your presentation.  After I had shared my thoughts about your show to her, she mentioned how disillusioned she was about her son choosing not to attend.  “This is exactly ehat he(us) needed today.  What can I do?”  I gave her the web address and chatted for a while.  I hope this makes sense to you.  As was mentioned, we cannot feel helpless when some of the needy are not attended to in some way, rather be thankful for those that were assisted and have faith that those less fortunate will receive strength to establish meaningful goals, connect with an advocate along the way, and carry on.

Thanks on behalf of the SRC, the principal Mr. Bradshaw and the student body.

Bernie LeClaire

Chief Executive Adviser

Walter Murray Collegiate

On behalf of the students and staff members of Frontier Collegiate Institute (F.C.I.), I would like to thank the members of Absolute for helping us understand the true meaning of compassion.  The muli-media presentation, the inspiring messages that were from the hearts of the young adults and the heavy metal sound of the band all contributed to a very successful show.

We appreciate the fact that you included us in your northern tour.  Our students lack a global perspective on the events that make people’s lives far from optimal.  The students who attended your presentation consider their situation to be grave, but your presentation opened many of their eyes and provided them with hope for the future.

 I would highly recommend Absolute to other schools across Canada.

Sincerely,

William Taylor

Principle, Frontier Collegiate Institute

On behalf of the organizing committee for the Manitoba Leadership Conference, I want to thank each of the Absolute Team for the sincerity and energy you bring to your work!!  Our delegates and advisers were touched by your messages in so many ways.

Thank you for staying over on Saturday…you kick started the end of the conference with energy.

All the best to you!

Judi Park

Co-Chair M.S.L.C

We at Ballenas were most fortunate to have ABSOLUTE perform for our entire school (1,000 students) in each of the past two years. The combination of pulsating music, powerful personal testimonies and thought provoking statistics of a world in need, combine for an outstanding, memory-making presentation. Two students from Ballenas accepted the challenge to work towards the eradication of world poverty as Holiday Heroes in 2005 … this year 23 students and adults from Ballenas will be Holiday Heroes!

This concert, held in mid-April was truly the highlight of our school year. The ABSOLUTE staff through their skillfully choreographed presentation, challenged our students to make sound, value-based decisions on several contemporary and relevant teen issues such as self-esteem, bullying, substance use/abuse and teen attitude towards sex and STD’s. Our students were fully engaged for the entire concert and a couple of lucky ones had the opportunity to participate in a most humorous dance routine. AT the concert’s end, students flocked to the information table to speak with ABSOLUTE staff about becoming Holiday Heroes for 2007. I have, subsequently been engulfed by students coming to my office asking for application forms for Hero Holiday 2007 - so far eighteen students (and counting) are planning on spending part of their July, 2007 in the Dominican Republic! Are we excited???

In conclusion, I cannot recommend ABSOLUTE highly enough. Sincerest congratulations and appreciation for a job WELL DONE!

Sincerely,

Bill Rawlins
Principal

Ballenas Secondary School
Box 1570, 135 N. Pym
Parksville, B.C. V9P 2H4
Telephone (205) 248 5721
Fax (250) 954 1531

On behalf of the Grand Trunk SADD Committee, Wildwood FCSS and Wildwood School, we would like to thank you for bringing your amazing program to our school! The students LOVED the band ‘Rides Again’. Many of our students bought CD’s that day and some students have told us that, “we listen to the music everyday!”

The personal testimonies shared by your group members also had an impact on our students. it was good for students to hear that, no matter what is happening in their homes or personal lives, they can overcome struggles and be the best they can be.

Our students told us that your presentation taught them:

- To get involved and help other in my school.
- To help those who are feeling all alone.
- Not to bully others, because it hurts them on the inside.
- To believe in yourself.
- To have compassion for those who are hurting.
- To know that hope can be found even in the darkest of places.
- To be a leader and not a follower.

Our staff also really enjoyed the presentation, “the real life experiences were very powerful and spoke directly into the hearts of many of our students”. “The Absolute ‘TEAM’ really knows how to reach young people. We thank you all so much for visiting our school”.

Yours truly,

Mr. Dan Seitz
Principal
Lisa Morris
Family School Liaison

Wildwood School
Box 210,
Wildwood, AB
T0E 2MO
Phone (780) 325 3858
Fax (780) 325 2031

Students had their t-shirts and jeans autographed and were interested in the hero program that was being displayed. Many students sought out further information and/or signed up for the summer program.

The speakers talked about bullying, which ties in with our school bullying program. They also touched upon the ‘free the children’ campaign, which has recently been implemented at Parkview. In addition the stories shared were relevant to our population and most students enjoyed the combination of music and story telling.

We highly recommend this presentation for al secondary schools. Absolute provides a relevant message in an appropriate format for teens.

Sincerely,

Connie Memmolo
Teacher

Parkview Secondary School
60 Balsam Ave, N
Hamilton, ON
L8L 6Y3
Tel: 905-545-5879
Fax: 905-545-5315

On behalf of the SADD committee, Wildwood FCSS and Grand Trunk High School, we would like to thank you for bringing your amazing program to our school! The students LOVED the band, RIDES AGAIN. Many of our students bought CD’s that day and are really talking a lot about the powerful lyrics.

The personal testimonies shared by your group members also had an impact on a lot of our students. It was good for our students to hear that no matter what is happening in their homes or personal lives, they can overcome struggles and be the best they can be. Many teens today have struggle with low self-esteem, sometimes it’s because they haven’t received many positive messages.

One student said that the presentation taught her to, “Walk in my own footsteps and don’t believe the lies”. Other students said that the presentation taught them to, “stand up for others” and, “to be a leader, not a follower”.

Our staff also enjoyed the presentation, their comments include; “ABSOLUTE was the most professional presentation that I have ever seen at a school”. “I think the real life experiences were a great thing for the students to hear”. “The ABSOLUTE group brought a powerful and unforgettable message to our students”. The ABSOLUTE team was well-spoken, humorous, kind and intelligent. They provided important information as the message was loud & clear: Everyone is important and has value”.

Yours truly,

Mr. Derek Brown
Principal
Lisa Morris
Family School Liaison

Grand Trunk High School
Box 339
Evansburg, AB
T0E 0T0

Thank you for the opportunity to offer Absolute to our school population once again this year. AS with last year’s presentation, the youth had very positive energy and feedback about the impact of the presentation on them. Certainly, the ideas and themes presented left youth with a lot to consider and talk about in regards to decisions that they will make in their every day lives. The messages delivered by Absolute are in keeping with the messages youth hear from the Teen Health Center in classroom presentations and through Peer Health Education.

We really appreciated the organization, preparedness and tightness of the crew in regards to set up and presentation. Quite frankly, they required very little assistance from us to set up and dismantle the stage and the show went off without a hitch. Ryan, Michelle and the whole crew are courteous, friendly and outgoing and immediately connected with youth and staff alike. The multi-media presentation was fast-paced and exciting and the hour flew by. The youth were engaged the whole presentation which is an accomplishment with 1000+ youth all together at once!

This year, we have put particular emphasis on understanding and addressing social justice issues. Certainly, the work that Absolute does with Hero Holiday as well as promoting youth to take action on social justice issues, particularly child poverty, had a huge impact on the youth and amplified this message within the school. From what I am hearing, many youth are interested in doing more about child poverty through World Vision and in other ways.

Thank you for offering this worthwhile presentation and recognizing the importance of opening discussions with youth about the things that are typically not talked about in school. We look forward to working with you again and wish you the best of luck as you continue to offer workshops throughout the country.

Thank you,
Sheila Lane, Public Health Nurse
Youth Health Center Coordinator
Lockview High School
148 Lockview Rd,
Fall River, NS
B2T 1J1

902-860-6000 x309

I am writing this letter to thank you for your Absolute presentation. The students rated your presentation very highly. They thought the participants were good speakers. Bringing in a celebrity like Miss Canada was well received and appreciated by all the student body and members of the staff.

The students felt that the stories told not only had an impact on them but they were also believable. They felt that they really affected everyone whether they had problems or not. The presentation related totally to the audience and was very teen oriented. The variety of methods used to get the message across did not go unnoticed by our students. Their comment was: It was great to have the music, the screen and the speakers. Humor helped keep the mood light but retained the impact. Statman took pride in our school and even wore our school sports uniform. Including two members of our school population in the presentation had a good effect on the students.

Lastly, many students commented about the fact that even after the presentation they would be able to contact someone if they had problems. This ever-lasting information was important to the students.

The students did have one complaint. They wish that they had been informed about the merchandise that would be for sale following the presentation. Many of them were unable to purchase anything because they had no money with them.

Students and teachers commented that your presentation would be a hard act to follow.

Thanks again,

Brenda Grimble
Teacher/Counselor

Pine Grove Middle School
4619-12th Ave
Edson, AB
T7E 1S7
Tel: 780-723-5929
Fax: 780-723-2189

It is with high regard and great pleasure to recommend the group of young individuals who make up the team ‘ABSOLUTE’. Absolute has performed for the past two years at Dunbarton High School and we are eager to bring them back for round three. In my 18 years of experience in the educational system I have never before witnessed a school assembly such as the performance of Absolute. Every moment of the performance was filled with motivation, entertainment and relevant lessons directed at the students. Absolute meets teens were they are at and they do so in a superb way.

Their performance is captivating and intriguing, truly causing the audience to experience, think and feel. To be able to capture and influence young people with smart values, high morals and a hope for the future is nearly impossible in today’s society; Absolute not only delivers in this department but does so in a way that truly inspires and motivates the students.

I have heard nothing but positive comments from students, teachers and administrative staff and feel that an investment like this is well worth it.

Absolute are professional and a pleasure to work with, I would not hesitate to recommend them for any type of assembly or high school function.

Maureen Johnston
Educational Assistant
Impact-teacher representative

Dunbarton High School
655 Sheppard Avenue
Pickering, ON
L1V 1G2
Tel: 905-839-1125
Fax: 905-839-6536

This year’s presentation was very informative and interesting. I think that to make people want to listen you have to make it enjoyable and especially right now with what has been going on in our town we really needed encouragement on positive choices, which was just what you guys did.

The majority of our school loves rock music so that was awesome. You guys might not think we paid attention or had fun but we did it was just really early in the morning. I asked a few classes how they liked the presentation and they really enjoyed it especially the younger years who hadn’t seen the mullet dance. The older students were as enthusiastic about the presentation and they remembered a lot of the presentation like the mullet dance and Statgirl.

Overall it was a really good performance and thank you for coming.

Morgan Owens
Eston Composite School
220 4th Avenue East
P.O. Box 639
Eston, SK
S0L 1A0