Rotary Moment
| A Rotary Moment is a personal, two-to-three-minute story about a highly memorable experience in a Rotarian's life that transformed their perspective, solidified their commitment to the organization, or demonstrated the positive impact of Rotary's work, such as service projects or community support. These stories are shared to inspire others, build connections, and communicate the meaning and value of Rotary beyond simple facts and figures. |
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Our Speaker: Scott Dickson
Dave Andrews introduced Scott Dickson, the Director of True North Basketball and the founder of Level Up Leadership. Scott is a dedicated youth mentor, and his mission is to empower youth through basketball and other sports camps. Scott’s programs inspire youth to grow through teamwork that helps build confidence. He was recently awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal for his youth and community service.
A serendipitous meeting at Delpark introduced Scott to our club. Because of his conversation with Hilda, we started a relationship that he hopes will continue. Scott began his presentation by sharing his personal journey. He remembered his ‘get everything’ moment as a young man and his life in the Denise House programs. Scott spoke about his past and how it influences what he does today. He ended with his hopes for the future of Level Up!
Scott’s Story
Scott never saw his dad after that night, when his mom told him to grab everything and escape. He spent his youth in the Denise House system, where he learned there was a need for mentors and coaches for children in similar situations. Most importantly, he learned that affordable, fun experiences have a positive impact on a child’s life.
What’s Happening today
The goal is to always promote positivity and help the youth build confidence and self-worth. This is done through non-judgmental conversations and sports camps. Three camps where this happens are the Level Up Elite Camp, the True North Elite Basketball Club, and the Lil Ballerz. Three ideas are always stressed in these programs, no matter what age are G-have a giving nature, A- be an authentic person, and P-keep a positive outlook.
What the Future Holds
To continue his work and to make the programs available to more youth, Scott plans on:
Being the most affordable option for youth, especially during March Break.
Expand his programs in Durham Regional schools.
Create youth leadership awards that celebrate the successes of youth.
Scott wrapped up his presentation with a moving story of someone who experienced the trauma of witnessing his brother’s murder. While this boy still has a long way to go, SelfCare U and Level Up mentorship helped him cope with the trauma, and he is doing much better today. Success stories like this one fuel Scott’s passion. Questions included “What about girls?” (Ans: They are co-ed, and no one is left out.) What about a DRPS connection? (Ans. We are working on connecting with police groups and welcome your suggestion.) Our club values your commitment. Could you put a Rotary logo on your presentation materials? (Ans. Of course!) Speaking of logos, why are there palm trees in your logo? (Ans. One of the youths designed the logo, and we asked him the same question. He thought it was a good representation of summer.)
Lennis Trotter thanked Scott.
Vice President Tess closed the meeting at 8:02 pm.
IF YOU CAN’T MAKE IT, YOU CAN MAKE UP: Go online at www.rotary.org go to the club locator and find a club or clubs near your destination. Or you can add the free App Rotary Club Locator to your phone for instant look up of any club in the world. Please mail or fax your make-ups to Executive Secretary Dave Andrews or give your make-up card to the attendance/registration officer at the next club meeting.