Painting a Future for Someone Else

A simple moment can change everything. That’s what happened in 2018 when Bill Wallace a member of the Governor’s Club paused long enough to truly listen.

He wasn’t in a board meeting. He wasn’t on a golf cart. He was simply talking with an employee who shared not a scorecard, but a dream — and the financial barriers that threatened it. What I admire the most about Bill is his Awareness of a need, Resourcefulness to share it with a few other members and see if they could help, then recognized the Timing was right to present the idea to the  Board of Directors.  That is the ART.

That moment didn’t just inform. It ignited a new legacy at the Governor’s Club in Chapel Hill. This past Thursday afternoon, I spoke before 100 members at the Step Forward Scholarship Luncheon, I realized something remarkable: they aren’t just generous — they live the ART of Making a Difference.

Awareness — Seeing Beyond the Surface

Great art begins with seeing what others overlook.  Likewise, making a difference begins with noticing what most people pass by.

The Governor’s Club isn’t just known for its renowned golf course and elegant dining; it’s marked by a membership that sees people, not positions. They saw a need. They saw potential. And they chose to pay attention to inspire not only their employees but their dependents to chase their hearts desire.

Resourcefulness — Compassion with Structure

Awareness alone is nice. But what comes next is what matters.  That simple conversation blossomed into the Step Forward Scholarship Fund — a vehicle that turns good intentions into concrete opportunities:

• Scholarships for employees and dependents

• Support for vocational and academic goals

• Mentorship and career encouragement

Since its start in 2018, over $800,000 in scholarships have been awarded. That’s not random generosity. That’s organized compassion.

Timing — Acting Before the Moment Slips Away

Many people notice. Many feel compassion. Few act.  Timing is the decision to move now, not later.

The Governor’s Club didn’t delay. They did not wait for the perfect moment.
They acted when the opportunity stood in front of them. And because they did, lives have stepped forward and generations will be changed forever.

The Greatest Ripple

I’ve spoken at many fine clubs, and I’ve seen generosity before. But what stood out that afternoon wasn’t the setting. It was the spirit.

A club known for excellence decided excellence isn’t just about traditions or trophies — it’s about empowering others. That’s when legacy becomes impact.  And it reminded me of something central to The ART of Making a Difference:

The greatest gift in making a difference is the difference it makes in you.

At the Governor’s Club, that transformation is already happening and a legacy to truly admire.