Hard work, of course. But also higher education.

That’s why Terry Wilson started the One at a Time Scholarship Program at St. Vincent de Paul several years ago. Education has always been the best hope for creating the opportunities for success and achieving permanent economic change in families.

This program provides financial aid to students who would not be able to attend college without our financial help. Many are the first in their families to enjoy higher education. Besides a commitment of financial help to pursue a four-year degree, these students receive the help and support of an adult mentor.

Jeff Hornacek and Terry Wilson

Yesterday, the 23 students currently in the One at a Time Scholarship Program, along with their families and mentors, gathered for lunch and encouragement from NBA star Jeff Hornacek and SVdP Board President Joe Riley.

Joe pointed out to the students “…how important it is to think positively. Those who harbor a negative view of life, whose cup is always half-empty, impose a terrible and foolish burden on themselves. I’m not even willing to settle for my cup being half-full. I always try to think that it runneth over. Maintaining that positive outlook can make all the difference, every day. I can think of countless ways in which it has been beneficial to me.”

He also shared this poem with those in attendance. It’s a message we can all use:

The Victor
C.W. Longenecker

If you think you are beaten, you are.
If you think you dare not, you don’t
If you like to win but think you can’t,
It’s almost a cinch you won’t.

If you think you’ll lose, you’re lost.
For out in the world we find
Success begins with a fellow’s will
It’s all in the state of mind.

If you think you are outclassed, you are.
You’ve got to think high to rise.
You’ve got to be sure of yourself before
You can ever win the prize.

Life’s battles don’t always go
To the stronger or faster man.
But sooner or later, the man who wins
Is the man who thinks he can.

If you would like to learn more about the One at a Time Scholarship Program, become a mentor or make a financial donation, please contact Terry Wilson at tbakerwi@aol.com.