Nick Krier’s Remarks—PCYC’s 50^th Birthday and Dinner Program

I find it hard to believe that it’s been over 30 years since I first came to know PYC.

It was actually the fall of 1973; I had dropped out of high school and enrolled in their alternative education program. It was there that I met Jim and Ann Long, Dave Paulson and a short time later Owen Turnlund. These were some of the people who had made a difference in my life. There was one common factor I know that they all shared, and that was that they were people who have always believed in giving back.

As I look around this room tonight I can’t help but to think that we are all people who believe in giving back or we probably wouldn’t be here tonight.  We have shared our knowledge, our talents, volunteered our time and made contributions of monetary gifts. We’ve done this for Plymouth Christian Youth Center, our churches, other organizations and charities.

By giving back we create opportunities that will enrich the lives of so many.

By giving back we put upon one’s face that ever so precious smile, and that smile - well - that smile speaks for itself.

As the recipient of this giving back award there are a few things I would like to say to the Plymouth Christian Youth Center.

Thanks for being there in 1973 and enriching my life. You did make a difference

Thanks for being such a strong pillar in the community today. You continue to enrich the lives of hundreds of kids every year.

Thanks for giving me the opportunity to work with you and your wonderfully talented staff. It has been a very fulfilling and rewarding career.

Thanks for recognizing and honoring me tonight as someone who gives back.

I will continue to do what I can to put that ever so precious smile on a kid’s face.