For the last 7 weeks, I was graciously given the opportunity to share my experiences with the Soapbox community as I chronicled my SpringBoard journey of opening a climbing gym in Over-the-Rhine. As the class and this blog have come to a close, I would like to personally thank everyone who supported me along the way. Before SpringBoard and Soapbox, I honestly did not think my dream could ever become a reality.
To my SpringBoard facilitators Sarah Corlett and Joan Kaup: Thank you for providing a space where people like me can bring intangible ideas and turn them into a concrete business plan. The class was not only extremely informative, but fun. A space where I felt comfortable sharing my thoughts and dreams about the gym despite the number of obstacles I felt were in my way. Taking this class was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I would also like to thank ArtWorks and The Haile Foundation for providing our city with a program like SpringBoard.
To my SpringBoard classmates: Thank you for making these past eight weeks so enjoyable and productive. I honestly had no idea what to expect in terms of fellow entrepreneurs when I signed up, but I think our class turned out great. It was so beneficial to have such a wide range of business ideas in different phases of development. All of the feedback I received was extremely helpful, and for that I am very appreciative. I hope that your experiences were of equal value and that I somehow contributed to your causes in a positive way.
To Elissa Yancey and Soapbox: Thank you for presenting me with the opportunity to share my SpringBoard experience through this publication. Prior to this blog, I had never let anyone aside from my professors read anything I had written. The experience I have had sharing this blog, in addition to the great amount of support and positive feedback I have received, has given me a confidence in both my writing and business plan, which I never expected. To my surprise, people other than my family and friends read my pieces!
To everyone who followed my journey so far: Thank you, thank you, thank you. I can’t tell you how much it means to me every time a stranger or acquaintance recognizes me and offers support. I know how busy all of you are and the fact you took time out of your day to read about my dream genuinely touches my heart and gives me so much more motivation and confidence toward pursuing the gym. I look forward to seeing you all there when it opens!
To my family and friends: Thank you for reassuring me that this whole thing isn’t crazy. Taking the SpringBoard course and writing for Soapbox were two things I never thought I would do, and may not have without all of your encouragement and support. My ultimate goal in building a climbing gym is to create a space that will contribute to my community and reflect the goodheartedness you have shared with me. You have all individually helped shape me into the person I am today, and I hope that I can accomplish this and make you proud.
Enjoy this story?
Sign up for free solutions-based reporting in your inbox each week.