Justin Endres

 

When I was asked to participate in the Legacy NAFC Alumni Royal Court, I was reluctant. Fundraising isn’t one of my strengths. But I kept thinking about the ways that coaches, teachers, and classmates impacted me.

Middle school and high school are difficult times. My experience with NAFC teachers was one marked by patience and persistence toward me. I am thankful for the teachers who understood what was going on in my little world, and who encouraged me. I am thankful for the coaches who taught consistency, accountability, and preparedness. I am thankful for the teammates, classmates and friends who I probably learned more from than any classroom. I am still learning from some of those teachers and friends today.

I was apprehensive about participating in this campaign, but I could not avoid seeing how the current teachers and coaches are front and center making a significant and real impact on my kids now. Stepping back, I am left with an appreciation of the opportunities I had. And I just couldn’t miss the chance to help facilitate those same experiences for others. The programs the Foundation helps sustain-- field trips, grants for classroom projects and special learning experiences—make the education experience complete. I couldn’t miss the opportunity to help facilitate those same opportunities for the current and future New Albany-Floyd County students.

Justin Endres, New Albany High School '96

Justin Endres