Reggie Berry Recieved The Teachers Making A Difference Award
At The 2007 Cherry Blossom Festival

(Below is a copy of the letter that was submitted to the Cherry Blossom Festival Committee.)

Since 1999 I’ve been aware of the Goals For Life (GFL) program and impressed by Reggie Berry, the founder of Goals For Life.  Although GFL specializes in teaching at-risk students, Reggie relates to their individual needs by becoming a mentor and someone they can look-up-to, which is extremely important for young children.  

It takes Reggie countless hours to write lesson plans, find and train former NFL athletes and to secure funding for the GFL non-profit program, plus run an office. These functions are in addition to teaching and being a guest speaker at various schools.  With every task, Reggie always gives 100%.

It’s rare when you meet a teacher whose “eyes sparkle” when they talk about their students.  Reggie always displays this kind of pure enjoyment when the subject of teaching comes up. He’s a natural, when it comes to going that “extra mile”.  He insures that the students are rewarded for achieving their goals with incentives such as: GFL watches, t-shirts, pencils, stuffed animals, sports memorabilia and other items that kids enjoy. Field trips, Super Bowl Parties and interesting outings to colleges and even to Skid Row are arranged by Reggie, to enhance the kids’ awareness of what their future could hold.

I believe that at-risk students who are fortunate enough to go through the GFL program, are afforded the tools to become more productive citizens.  We need more male –role models to care, inspire and encourage our youth. Reggie Berry does all of the above and best of all, he does his work because he loves the kids…and it shows.
He is truly making a difference.