Minnesota Hands & Voices

During these challenging times when travel may not be possible, I’ve been doing some behind the scene work for Courage & Grit to determine the best path forward for the organization. I determined that seeking out virtual ways to connect with nonprofits and the youth they serve would be most beneficial. I was delighted to be invited by nonprofit Minnesota Hands & Voices to provide a video clip for Minnesota deaf children interested in sports. During my webinar keynote in October, I shared with them the importance of resilience. Specifically, I told them "If you want to live an exceptional life, you have to first understand you are not an exception." In a world where so many people are trying to find shortcuts, I stressed that you have to earn your short cuts, from your own experiences, as your own path of life is unique unto you.

I look forward to continuing virtual connections to inspire overlooked and underserved youth during these ever-changing times which undoubtedly have been difficult for youth to navigate.

No Limits for Deaf Children - Las Vegas

Spending time at No Limits - Las Vegas was such a rewarding experience, not only being able to shoot hoops with the kids, but also being able to answer questions from the children and their parents. This visit came on the incredible day when my newest book The New Alpha Male was launched and I gave a keynote at the Wynn. And to have the day close with me at No Limits and being reminded what it is ALL about... paying it forward. I am simply grateful for the opportunity. 

Donna Furlong, Executive Director shared ‘Lance spent time in Las Vegas visiting the students and families of No Limits for Deaf Children. He spoke from his heart in a language they could understand about his life challenges and accomplishments. Lance autographed basketballs, books, and even shot some hoops with the kiddos. He inspired everyone in attendance and truly demonstrated the No Limits motto of, I can do it!’

Boys & Girls Club of Southern Nevada

The Boys and Girls Club of Southern Nevada’s Lied Memorial Clubhouse was a top notch facility. Their administration was exceptional in their preparation and facilitation of the event by helping me reach and connect with their teens. Working with their 30 teenagers, some athletes and some artists, was a reminder to me about the power of heart, before all else. I had every participant fill out a survey before my visit. I posed questions relating to ‘When one thinks of the World‘, ‘When working with or helping others’, ‘I find myself most happy or fulfilled when’, ‘I think’ and ‘I like’ which resulted in very candid responses, some sadly very negative. I was then able to tailor my session to address the internal feelings of the students.

No Limits for Deaf Children - Los Angeles

Spending time with No Limits in LA was a beautiful reward, finding so many children and teens who are in between the cracks of the hearing world and signing world. I grew up in that world—in between worlds, and it was a lonely place. No Limits is exactly the place I would have needed myself as a child, and I am grateful to see the resources they provide for such kids, and how accessible they made it for me to connect with those kids who need role models to understand that they CAN grow up to be whatever they want despite their hearing loss.

First 2020 Sessions in the US!

The New Year brings continued travel for me, and in the first quarter I find myself in a few places including Los Angeles and Las Vegas.

I am thrilled to be partnering with No Limits for Deaf Children in Culver City, CA where I will be doing some motivational speaking for children ages 5-14, their families and teachers. No Limits teaches underserved deaf children and their families the skills to succeed in school and in life through its after-school educational centers and distinguished theater arts program, promoting advocacy and awareness worldwide. I cannot wait to share my personal story and try to help them remove the barriers I faced in my life growing up as a deaf child.

Since I will be in Las Vegas for a corporate speaking engagement in mid-March, I wanted to bring Courage and Grit to a nonprofit in that area too. I am excited to visiting the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Nevada who is doing lifechanging work for youth at 13 clubs in the Las Vegas area. A few of their Clubhouses have beautiful basketball gyms, and our C&G session will be held at the Lied Memorial Club. I am eager to share a recap and photos with you.

Their mission, ‘To enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens’ resonates with me, and I look forward to seeing what their students will learn from a Courage and Grit session.

Stay tuned…