The Fundraising Page of Sonny Misa

What are your first thoughts when you think of a leader’s characteristics? Generally, we think of leaders as the charismatic extrovert that sways the crowd. We innately see those in the forefront as the most present, leading by example as they guide the group. I believe that kind of leadership is important, but there is an equally crucial form that often gets overlooked: the introvert who leads from behind. The introverted leader takes the step back to see things from a different perspective. Where the extroverted leader sways the majority, the introverted leader is free to pay attention to the minority. We see the minutiae and quietly work to create the scaffolding that empowers others. Many of us practice this kind of leadership without ever realizing it. Small gestures—seemingly insignificant to us—can cause major ripples in other people’s lives. A single encouraging statement or a simple act of kindness can create lollipop moments (Drew Dudley, Everyday Leadership) that leave impacts that we may never know. Instead of viewing leadership as a role only for strong, charismatic individuals—a pedestal above our reach—we must allow ourselves to acknowledge this everyday kind of leadership. Once we start believing in our own significance, we become more comfortable in our abilities. Through this, we allow ourselves to grow within our roles, resting into our unique leadership styles. Leadership does not require charisma, but instead breeds it from a deep understanding of our own forms of leadership. I am back at UniCamp as CLIMB Program Director and Alpine Supervisor. In the previous year as Program Director, I was granted the opportunity to practice my personalized kind of leadership with both high school and college students. Last summer I saw the amazing transformations that individuals partake when people believe in them. I witnessed individuals thrive in their prowess, leaving insecurities in their wake. This year, I am committing my summer again to UniCamp as I strive to bring a deeper level of empowerment to these young adults. As always, this level of commitment comes at a cost. We strive to serve urban youth, significantly subsidizing their cost so they can attend camp. Without the generosity of individuals like yourself, these goals fall on empty seats. I implore you, if there has ever been a lollipop moment in your life, please help me spread awareness to both the kids and the people around you. Even if it seems insignificant, you never know the ripples you may set forth. My personal GivEffect donation link below: https://www.giveffect.com/participants/35843-sonny-misa Venmo @SonnyM Drew Dudley - Everyday Leadership https://www.ted.com/talks/drew_dudley_everyday_leadership Everyone inquires “Why Gryffindor?” when they hear it’s my camp name. What started as a simple nickname I earned in high school, has now evolved into a way of life within UniCamp. Find out why below: https://www.facebook.com/events/247427472301802/ Lastly... I have one more announcement… This will be my last year at camp. I was accepted into the Occupational Therapy Doctorate program at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia. I hope to explore areas that Virtual Reality can interact with Occupational Therapy (If you’re curious, just ask!), while progressing the use of Augmented and Virtual Reality in education and therapy in general. It’s been a great run in California and it’s been a pleasure meeting all of you (yeah you, actually taking the time to read this whole long wall of text). I’ll be juggling work and camp a lot before I leave, but if you want to hang out then hit me up! Much Woodsey Love, Sonny "Gryffindor" Misa