The Simple Pleasures We Take for Granted by Alexandra

The Simple Pleasures We Take for Granted by Alexandra - January 2024 Scholarship Essay

We often take for granted the simple pleasures of walking, running, and sliding into home base. However, children with special needs often find themselves excluded from or unable to partake in these activities. This is where Miracle League (ML) steps in; it’s a nationwide non-profit organization dedicated to providing children with physical or mental disabilities the opportunity to play baseball.

I chose to partner with ML when I was selected as a junior to write a DECA Chapter Book to represent my school district. I contribute significantly to ML by assisting at many events and hosting fundraisers. One of the events entailed setting up a fundraiser at a local grocery store. I stood outside from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., speaking to residents and informing them of ML’s mission and future events, and raised over $1,000. Through this experience, I discovered the power of my voice, being able to touch others and inspire them to support the cause. At events, I speak to many children who participate in the League. These encounters fill me with pride and empowerment, knowing I am making a lasting mark and opening opportunities for disabled children. This year, I also made a promotional video to advertise the League’s national championship game. At this, I volunteered to capture photographs and videos of the players in action. I was also able to cheer and high-five players as they ran past me with smiles filling their faces.

My first-place win in the state competition was gratifying, but the real victory was the immeasurable reward of promoting inclusion. DECA has allowed me to explore my interest in business while granting me fulfillment in knowing I can leave a lasting impact. In college, I aim to become a part of many non-profit organizations that work toward improving the community.