Dear BBGs,

This past weekend, Connecticut Valley Region wrapped up our year by hosting Spring Kallah. A weekend full of friends, fun, and impact—but also full of lasts for many. As a junior, I still have one more year to spend in this wonderful organization, but some of my best friends who have been with me since my first event experienced their last ever convention. Their state speeches truly inspired me and made me realize just how grateful I am to be part of such an impactful organization. Future leaders of BBYO, I urge you to take action and start being involved in this sisterhood. As someone who joined going into 8th grade, I was shy and lacked confidence. I regret not being able to get as involved as I could have been and hope that I can make an impact on even one person reading this. Steer a convention, sign up for that committee, and talk to every new person you meet. You never know who could end up being your new best friend! A piece of advice that has always stuck with me comes from my friend Ava, who encouraged me to say yes to any new opportunity that comes along because you never know where it could lead you. I have taken this to heart, and every time a new steering or leadership committee comes out I am the first one to sign up. This has brought me to some of my best friends who I wouldn’t have known otherwise. The theme for Big Little this year was Heart and Home—shoutout to my little, Eden—and while I know BBG is my home, I hope this can inspire you to pursue your passion for BBYO and find your own way to cherish it in the way that many have before you.

Submitted with undying love and dedication to the B’nai B’rith Girls,

    Maddie Kates