I was sitting in the Martha Stewart studio, surrounded by women of great achievement, tears streaming down my face, and thinking -- I am so proud of the company that I work for.
Women on Their Way and Wyndham Worldwide sponsored Martha Stewart's contest, "Dreamers into Doers" and last night was the taping of the final show, which included the announcement of the Grand Prize Winner, Amy Jaffe Barzach and her non-profit, Boundless Playgrounds.
Boundless Playgrounds is now known as the first national nonprofit dedicated to helping communities create extraordinary playgrounds where children, with and without disabilities, can play and learn together.
Amy started her work in honor of her nine-month-old son Jonathan who passed away from spinal muscular atrophy. The Barzach family sought a meaningful way to honor his memory and began their journey in creating the unique playgrounds.
Amy's story is touching and uplifting, as were the other 10 finalists who were in the studio as well. These women have succeeded in turning their passions into careers and are now living their dreams. Very inspiring!
As the sponsor of the contest, Women on Their Way and Wyndham Worldwide participated in the promotion of the contest in the magazines, online, on Sirius Radio and on the Martha Stewart Show. So, very exciting opportunity for me, as well as a great learning experience.
Wyndham Vacation Ownership gave the Grand Prize winner "Vacations for life" which is ownership of a timeshare that can be used in thousands of places all over the world. I would love to receive that gift! These women work so hard during the day; a great vacation with time to spend with their families regrouping and reconnecting is really the perfect reward for their efforts. So, not only did Amy get a vacation package and a well deserved break, but so did all of the finalists!
Each honoree was given a week-long vacation at Wyndham Rio Mar Spa + Resort in Puerto Rico. Lucky (and well deserving) ladies! If you have read my past columns, then you know that the hubby, wee one and I had a super vaca there earlier this year. Those women are going to have a blast!
As I watched the celebration of these women, as well as the Living Legend Award Winner, Dr. Maya Angelou, I was inspired by their stories and courage, honored by their graciousness and proud to be a part of the program that helped make the contest and celebration a reality. Way to go Wyndham!
