Two Words That Changed My Life: Yes, And

"Yes, And" Campaign

I'm a former pessimist, and I hated every minute of it. Finding fault was easy. Making a convincing case for an unpleasant outcome didn't take much creativity, and I usually felt worse afterward.

Then, in 1999, one improv class at the Brave New Workshop introduced me to two words that changed my life: "Yes, and." Acknowledge what's there. Then find something to build on. I learned that improv is inherently optimistic, and it became my practice.

Not long ago, Kyle shared my concerns about Jack's long-term future. It stung to see those concerns in writing. They were real. They still are.

But so is your generosity. I've been depositing checks and watching donations arrive online, thinking, "YES! And… we still need more."

Some funding we once counted on is no longer certain. Meanwhile, more fellas are reaching out, bravely asking for connection and support. That's something worth building on.

They tell us how much a single monthly meeting means to them. That Jack's "gets them" in a unique way and that we've got something special here.

I believe them. And I want us to keep showing up.

On Give to the Max Day, November 19, please say "Yes, And" to Jack's Caregiver Coalition with a donation. You don’t have to wait for the 19th. Make your gift on our Give to the Max page

Yes, this community matters. And, with your help, we can keep it here for the next fella who reaches out.