Quote of the day:

“Persistence.  Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence.
Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent.
Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb.
Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts.
Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent.
The slogan, ‘Press on,’ has solved and always will solve the problems of the human race.”
- Calvin Coolidge

How often do you NOT answer the phone if the number is…

1. Unrecognizable
2. A 1-800 number
3. A definite telemarketer
4. Your parents (Just kidding!!)

Well this past month I had the privilege of being asked to telemarket. Initially I thought that nobody would answer the phone because they knew I would be asking for money (For people with caller ID it would show up as Brescia, which some classify as solicitors!!). Boy (Or should I say girl!) was I wrong…

Over seven thousand dollars were raised from the three days of phone calling. I learned that the Brescia community is definitely a supportive family. I had the opportunity of calling Brescia alumnae, most of which graduated in the 1950s and 1960s. The conversations I stroke up were unbelievable. I think some of the ladies were just happy to have someone to talk to. I also learned a lot about how the school has changed. Each and every one of the ladies who answered had a unique story to tell (Some of their husbands spoke to me as well. Those were equally entertaining conversations). Although none of the alumnae I called were food and nutrition graduates, they had a lot of advice to offer. Most of them agreed that they haven’t lost touch with the friends they made in first year.

Not only did it feel good when people answered the phone, it was nice when the alumnae donated. After all, it is a holiday season so many people maynot be financially well off. Regardless of the amount, whether it be 20 dollars or 200 dollars, each donation was very much appreciated. It is nice because the Ontario government will (and has) match(ed) every dollar donated. Each donator had the option of choosing how their money was used (i.e. Bursary fund, Student Council…) which is also a neat factor.

If you or someone you know still wants to donate it isn’t too late. You can do so online, by phone call or by sending a cheque to Brescia.

So I hope that next time you see a 1-800 or “Solicitor” number, you think twice. After all, maybe the money is going to a GREAT cause like the money we fundraised is.

❤ Molly

Have you ever conversed with a friendly telemarketer? Have you ever had an experience similar to mine? Leave a comment below!