As we celebrate Digital NEST’s 10th anniversary, I’m filled with gratitude for the many supporters who have helped make our journey possible. Your unshakeable belief in our mission, me, and most importantly, our youth, got us to this remarkable milestone.
The first decade of the NEST was foundational – focused on building a robust organization, understanding our community’s needs, and establishing the infrastructure necessary for long-term success. When I founded the NEST, I was determined to create something sustainable rather than an organization that made grand promises it couldn’t keep. Today, I can proudly say we’ve built something that will endure long after we’re gone.
Consider organizations like the Boys and Girls Club or the YMCA in their early years. We’re living through a similar moment in history. In another decade, we’ll look back at our 10-year celebration and marvel, again, at how far we’ve come. Given that many nonprofits don’t survive their first decade, this milestone is noteworthy. But we’re not just surviving – we’re thriving.
What’s our secret sauce? Our youth. We’re seeing our graduates secure meaningful employment and opening doors for fellow NESTers who follow in their footsteps. This creates an unstoppable flywheel effect. Looking ahead to the next decade, I envision our alumni base growing exponentially, with successful professionals across various industries. I firmly believe we’ll even see a NEST alumnus become a CEO – it’s not a matter of if, but when.
Ten years ago, I approached our community with a vision that existed only in my mind. You took a chance on that dream. Today, I stand before you again, asking for your continued support for an even bigger vision – one where our communities and youth are at the center of opportunity. It’s not far-fetched to imagine our alumni in positions where they’re making hiring decisions, creating a perpetual cycle of opportunity and mentorship.
The time has come to reinvest in the NEST. Our model has proven successful, yet we’re only serving a fraction of the youth in our communities who could benefit from our programs.
The next decade holds unlimited potential. With your continued support, we will transform more lives, create more opportunities, and build stronger communities. Together, we celebrate 10 years past and lay the foundation for a legacy that will transform generations to come.
