Who’s In Your Story??? – A BNI Foundation National Video Contest

May 19, 2017
Archive

Who’s In Your Story? – A USA Video Contest!

 WHO: When you were growing up, did you have an adult who significantly influenced your life?

(A teacher, coach, mentor or friend is acceptable, just NOT an immediate family member.)

Then, we at the BNI Foundation want to hear from YOU!

WHY: We want you to share your story with us so we can share it with the world so people will see and hear the huge impact that adults can have on kids!

WHAT: So, tell us in a 1 minute or less video, about the person who inspired you, possibly even changed the trajectory of your life when you were between Kindergarten and High School Graduation.                 We especially welcome stories in which a small gesture or action made a big difference, showing how easy it can be to help our youth, without always spending a ton of time over many years. It can be raw footage, shot with a phone, and does NOT need to be professionally filmed or edited.

 WHEN: May 18 – June 15, 2017

 WHERE: U.S., Email your video contest submissions to: Marketing@bnifoundation.org

 – Subject Line should read: Who’s In Your Story? Video Contest

– Email should include:

-Name

-Location

-Video (1 minute or less) embedded or attached or a public link

to a video that can be downloaded from another place.

Examples: Hightail, Google Drive or Dropbox

 HOW: (RULES)

All submissions must

– Be NO more than 1 minute long

– At start of video, state your name & location (city & state)

– Be received by 11:59 pm (Eastern Time) on June 15, 2017

– Be a spoken testimonial of how this special person positively influenced your life

– Include a signed photo release consent form (downloadable here)

BONUS: (PRIZES) 3 Overall Winners

– 1st prize – 2 days in Austin, TX for winner + 1 guest

(1 day to be spent with Ivan & Beth Misner and includes airfare and hotel!)

– 2nd prize – $75 Amazon Gift Card

– 3rd prize – $50 Amazon Gift Card

Have fun making your videos and telling us your stories!!!

BNI Foundation at the BNI U.S. National Conference (Schedule of Events)

May 17, 2017
Archive

Every year, the BNI Foundation is lucky enough to be a guest at BNI U.S. National Conference. BNI and the BNI Foundation have a unique relationship – we are two separate entities, but exist simultaneously, sharing resources and embodying the concept of Givers Gain®. This year, from May 17-20, Stephanie Starr, the BNI Foundation Executive Director, will be joined by her “Dream Team” of Volunteers from around the US to help to educate and inform BNI leaders how the BNI Foundation can help Members Make More Money while cause networking. The BNI Staff and volunteers, including some BNI Executive Directors, will be on hand to help BNI Executive Directors and Director Consultants learn how to implement service projects in their area to increase their bottom line, improve member retention and growth, and spread the word about BNI in their area.

Wednesday

Community Service Event – 4:30pm

Please join us as we work as a team to positively impact children in high poverty schools.

Thursday- Saturday

The BNI Foundation Booth Opens at 8 AM on May 18th and closes at 4pm on May 20th.

When you choose to participate in these fundraisers for the BNI Foundation, you could easily win big!

Pick up your 50/50 Raffle Ticket while at the BNI Foundation Table

1 Ticket- $50

2 Tickets- $75

3 Tickets – $100

You can also Bid on the following Silent Auction Items:

Have you always wanted to become a Sonoma Wine Maker?

Attend a baseball game at Wrigley Field on the Rooftop?

Go on a Cruise?

Vacation on Galveston Beach?

If so, come bid at our silent auction on Thursday, Friday and Saturday at the BNI Foundation Table.

Find out more about each Silent Auction Item Here

You can also learn more about the BNI Foundation and its programs!

     Friday

Chairman’s Reception – by invitation only

Saturday

Walk and Talk (or Run) bright & early at 6:15!

*The first 50 registrants are guaranteed a free t-shirt*

Register here to secure your t-shirt or Register In Person at the BNI Foundation Table

Learn more about the Walk and Talk Here

Registration Fees: 

$25 until 5/17

$30 after 5/17

 

Round Table during Conference

Our Round Tables – The BNI Foundation is hosting an information round table on Saturday, May 20th. Stop by our table to sit down with Stephanie Starr and other Executive Directors, Director Consultants and Regional Administrators who are working with the BNI Foundation to see how to implement it in your region. We will be sharing how many regions are using Business Voices initiatives to grow their regions.

We Look forward to seeing everyone at The BNI U.S. National Conference

For Volunteer Opportunities Please Email: volunteer@bnifoundation.org

For Sponsorship Opportunities Please Email: Marketing@bnifoundation.org

The BNI Foundation supports children’s educational programs.

With your help we can improve tomorrow’s business through education today!

The Newest Addition to the BNI Foundation Silent Auction is a Cruise for 2

May 17, 2017
Archive

Cruise for 2 to MEXICO 

  Carnival Fantasy

Carnival Cruise Lines

5 day, 4-night trip going to Mexico

Visiting: Mobile, Cozumel

Ocean View Stateroom: 6B

You’ll be delighted with how large our stateroom windows are, giving you excellent views of the ocean and each destination. You’ll be delighted with how large our stateroom windows are, giving you excellent views of the ocean and each destination. When sleeping late or planning an afternoon nap, the room-darkening draperies glide closed in seconds. Every Carnival guest is assured of spacious, comfortable accommodations. All staterooms have carpeting, ample drawer and closet space, private facilities (shower, basin and toilet), telephone and color television showing first-run films. Our SuperLiners all feature staterooms above ocean level for a more comfortable cruise.
Mobile, United States  (Days 1, 5)

The port city of Mobile is situated in the Gulf Coast region, where you can enjoy a wide variety of water sports including fishing, jet-skiing, rafting, canoeing and sailing. Mobile also features renowned championship golf courses, such as Linksman Golf Club and Magnolia Grove – part of the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. In addition to water sports and golf, Mobile has much more to offer. Take a stroll through Mobile’s Historic District that features its wonderful architectural heritage. For those who want an adventurous history tour, visit the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park. The decks, turrets, berth compartments, bridge, and captain’s cabin of the battleship are open for tours.

Mobile, United States – Attractions & Activities

Absorb Mobile Bay’s unique history as you view artifacts detailing the city’s earliest beginnings to modern day heroes at innovative museums. Explore a mighty battleship from stem to stern or relive history aboard a World War II submarine. Enjoy nature at its finest and visit one of our unrivaled gardens. Blooming year round, these gardens are a part of our city everyone must see. Recapture the true spirit of Southern history on the veranda of an antebellum home. Check out the latest scientific discoveries through hands on exhibits or sit back and watch an IMAX movie. Greyhound races run nightly, so grab a bite to eat and cheer on the dogs. Any time of the year, on any day of the week, Mobile Bay is teeming with energy.

Cozumel, Mexico  (Day 3)

The crystal clear water surrounding Cozumel makes it a favorite for divers and sun-seekers from around the world. Found on the Yucatan peninsula, it is the largest of Mexico’s islands and steeped in history, tracing Mayan descendants from 300 A.D. In town, there is shopping for local crafts and dining in colorful restaurants.

Cozumel, Mexico – Attractions & Activities

Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the ruins of the ancient Mayan city of Tulúm, majestically perched above the turquoise Caribbean. The site was occupied as far back as 600 A.D. However, it was most densely populated around 1200 A.D. You will be struck by the pyramid-shaped El Castillo, which dominates the city from atop a forty-foot cliff. The nearby Temple of the Descending God provides equally excellent insight into the architecture of the Mayan people, who gained considerable achievements in the arts and sciences, only to decline and vanish for no apparent reason.

Explore the underwater world of Chankanaab on a deep-sea adventure aboard the Atlantis Submarine. Discover what makes a dolphin so magical as you play and interact with these amazing creatures in Chankanaab National Marine Park. Sit back, relax, and bury your toes in the white sand of Playa del Sol beach in Cozumel. This destination offers all the food, drinks and activities you can imagine, including relaxing massages on the beach. Take a Jeep-safari adventure through the tropical landscape of Cozumel’s east side. Ride through sand dunes and trails for an unforgettable experience. Join the Fiesta party boat for a fun-filled trip to Playa del Sol, with margaritas, rum punch and a live band setting the mood for fun. Helmet dive in Chankanaab and trek around coral reefs to see the abundant marine life up close. Escape to the secluded beauty of your own private beach paradise, Passion Island, by a four-person canoe or motorized tender

BNI FOUNDATION SILENT AUCTION

April 27, 2017
Archive

One of the most exciting events at the BNI US Conference this year for the BNI Foundation is the BNI Foundation Silent Auction! This is silent auction features some fantastic experiences:

Become a Sonoma Valley Winemaker!

Blending Seminar

Winery Tours & Tastings

3 Night Stay & Airfare for 2 (Within the US)

Read More

BNI Foundation US Conference Walk and Talk May 2017

April 24, 2017
Archive

IMG_9699 3A few years back, Beth Misner, Co-Foundation of the BNI Foundation, initiated a fun event. Beth decided to start walking on Saturday morning of the BNI Convention. In the beginning, she invited a few special people to walk with her and to conduct 1:1 conversations. This idea grew into a larger event, with many BNI leaders, members, and GST staff participating. It has not just become a BNI Foundation tradition, but a fun event at BNI Conventions, both locally and globally. Some walk, some run. This is your perfect opportunity for a casual dance card or 1:1 with Graham Weihmiller, Beth Misner or Stephanie Starr.

 

The Walk and Talk (or Run) will take place on Saturday, May 20th at 6:15AM. Please register online here.  We are happy to take registrations on-site, but this year, we are adding a fun t-shirt to our first 50 registered walkers and runners as a THANK YOU!

 

Register Today, as t-shirts are going fast.  Show your BNI Foundation support and pride!
We cannot wait to see you there!

 

Regards,

 

Erica Gifford

Volunteer Coordinator

The BNI Foundation

Learn about the BNI Foundation and it’s programs at the BNI US Convention

April 21, 2017
Archive

Every year, the BNI Foundation is lucky enough to be a guest at BNI US Conference. BNI and the BNI Foundation have a unique relationship – we are two separate entities, but exist simultaneously, sharing resources and embodying the concept of Givers Gain®.

 

This year, from May 17-20, Stephanie Starr, the BNI Foundation Executive Director, will be joined by her “Dream Team” of Volunteers from around the US to help to educate and inform BNI leaders how the BNI Foundation can help Members Make More Money while cause networking. The BNI Staff and volunteers, including some BNI Executive Directors, will be on hand to help BNI Executive Directors and Director Consultants learn how to implement service projects in their area to increase their bottom line, improve member retention and growth, and spread the word about BNI in their area.

 

Here are four main ways you can learn about the BNI Foundation and its programs at the BNI US Convention:

 

1.Our Booth – Learn more about the BNI Foundation and its programs! Opens at 8 AM on May 18th and closes at 4pm on May 20th.

2.Our Walk and Talk – We are hosting a Fun Walk and Talk (or Run) on Saturday morning, bright and early at 6:15! Register here and be sure to get a premiere spot and t-shirt.

3.Our Auction – Have you always wanted to become a Sonoma Wine Maker or attend a baseball game at Wrigley Field on the rooftop or vacation on the beach in Galveston? If so, come bid at our silent auction on Thursday, Friday and Saturday at the BNI Foundation Table. We will announce all winners during the Gala.

4.Our Round Tables – The BNI Foundation is hosting an information round table on Saturday, May 20th. Stop by our table to sit down with Stephanie Starr and other Executive Directors, Director Consultants and Regional Administrators who are working with the BNI Foundation to see how to implement it in your region.

 

Feel free to drop us a note at info@bnifoundation.org before the show to set up a One to One.

 

We cannot wait to see you there!

 

Regards,

 

Erica Gifford

Volunteer Coordinator

The BNI Foundation

The Time is Here…Full Speed Ahead

April 4, 2017
Archive

Four months ago, the BNI Foundation was very happy to bring Stephanie Starr, Executive Director, onto our wonderful team. BNI Foundation Board Chair, Jeff Stay, and Co-Founder and President, Beth Misner have been closely working with Stephanie to share the culture of Givers Gain, our vision and mission (which she, in turn, helped us codify), and our future dreams for just how many kids we can impact with our initiatives.

It was Beth’s intention from the beginning to take off the foundation president’s hat within the next six months, after a time of working closely together with Stephanie to lay the best groundwork possible for our agency.

That time is here! Stephanie is now completely handling the operations of the BNI Foundation, interacting with our Board of Directors, and leading our other staff and volunteers. Beth will be stepping fully into her role as Co-Founder and will remain on the Board of Directors as board secretary. Expect to see both of them embracing their complementary roles over the next few months, and join us in congratulating them both on this milestone.

New to the BNI Foundation team are Beth Omecene Epperson, Director of Marketing & Communications with Middle Man Marketing, and Grace Sanchez Hagen, Development Consultant with the Grace Group.

We invite you to learn more about our Business Voices Teams by exploring our website, joining us at Facebook on the BNI Foundation page, or signing up for one of our Launchpad Zoom Web Calls on the 4th Monday of the month.
The young people in our world are only 20% of our total population, but they are 100% of our future! How will you join us to be a positive contributor to their story?

Kids Need Us to Be in Their Stories

March 27, 2017
Archive, Blog, Business VoicesTM

We were recently interviewing a school principal to learn more about how our local Austin Business Voices Team could help with the students’ and the school’s needs when she shared something that really jumped right out at me. She said, “While we have a lot of physical needs here, such as technology components, and science lab upgrades, what we need most are mentors for some of our most challenged youth.” She went on to share that for the population of students who come from challenging home environments, having interaction with successful business people like our BNI members could make a world of difference.

This is the heart of our Business Voices movement. We realize that where there are young people, there are needs that we can help with. I heard from a BNI director in another country, where education is managed differently than here in the US, who said that they don’t need to do school supply drives for their schools. Their governments provide thoroughly for the needs of the schools. And yet, I can’t help but think about the challenges of navigating through the teen-aged years, the emotional needs all developing young adults have, and how much caring and concerned members of their own communities could help them in any number of creative ways.

And so we have our call to action: who’s story are you in? What young person is going to look back on their life and remember YOU as the caring business owner he or she had interaction with that influenced their path in a positive way?

We invite you to learn more about our Business Voices Teams by exploring our website, joining us at Facebook on the BNI Foundation page, or signing up for one of our Launchpad Zoom Web Calls on the 4th Monday of the month.

The young people in our world are only 20% of our total population, but they are 100% of our future! How will you join us to be a positive contributor to their story?

Who Inspires You?

March 20, 2017
Archive, Business VoicesTM

By Beth Misner, BNI Foundation President: Most of us can identify someone in our lives who has inspired us to do something more than we thought was possible to accomplish. There have been many people who have inspired me personally. My husband, Ivan, BNI Founder and my Co-Founder in the BNI Foundation, inspires me every day, and I know he has inspired a fair number of you, too. His heart beats to Givers Gain – it truly does inform his life and his teaching.

And Sir Richard Branson is someone who has inspired both me and my husband. His thoughts on Business being a part of solutions needed around the globe to the various challenges we face today inspired us on many levels, most of all within the BNI Foundation. He inspired us to reach deeper in the communities all around us to do more than simply find deserving teachers to whom to send our Givers Gain® Grants.

I have kept Sir Richard updated as YOU have embraced our Business Voices initiative – creating a conduit between Business and Education for children’s education. I shared just a few of the many amazing stories with him, all of which come as a result of his vision for Business getting our hands on challenges like the ones faced in Education. Those of you who are part of a Business Voices Team are inspiring us all.

It is overwhelming to have a concept and to watch people gather around it and move with me into the unknown – to watch Business Voices unfold in real time. It is amazing to me to think about how many children are going to have different, more positive experiences because you hear this call to reach into their lives and help where it is needed.

So, although addressed to me, I extend Sir Richard’s praise on where we are today with our movement to you, because you truly deserve the majority of the gratitude. You are the ones out there in the world constructing the conduit I could only envision. To you we say:

Business Has A Voice in Education

March 10, 2017
Archive, Business VoicesTM, Featured Posts 1

BNI Foundation Co-Founder and President, Beth Misner, had a chance meeting at a local, Austin restaurant with a family from Houston. Michael was here to attend a rally to ask our state government not to cut funding for programs that help medically fragile children with their needs, including learning and keeping up with their counterparts as they undergo necessary medical care.

You’ll love meeting Charlotte, Michael’s young daughter, as Beth interviewed her daddy about their efforts. Remember, Business Voices is an initiative of the BNI Foundation. Our Business Voices teams say: “Bureaucracy Not Involved.” How can we help education and kids? That’s our #1 question.

We are improving tomorrow’s business through education today. Our mission is to create a conduit between Business and Education for children’s educational needs. Charlotte is just one of the reasons why we do this!

Please leave a comment below if you want to join Beth in the BNI Foundation and help us help kids with our unique and powerful movement.

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