My Five Months As CEO

By: Julia Rugg, CEO, Wings for Kids

My first FIVE months as CEO are wrapping up and...

I'm learning a new job all over again. So, what do you do when you're newly hired? LISTEN. TALK. I have loved hearing from the many voices that make up WINGS: students, part-time and full-time staff, donors, partners, parents, board members, principals, and more. October was exhilarating, insightful, and energizing! And I'm just getting started.  

Here ​are five sentiments I want to highlight from ​the past five months

November: #Grateful

 I'm so grateful for our kids and families who continue to trust us. For our schools and districts who continue to partner with us. For our communities who continue to embrace us. And for our WINGS Leaders and Program Directors who continue to make kids like Gregory feel seen. ⬇️

Meet Gregory & the letter he wrote to his WINGS Leader. Zoom in!

Students in the TLC Program shouting "I soar with WINGS. Let me tell you why."

December: #Generosity

YOU - our supporters, staff, Board, donors, and volunteers - are incredibly GENEROUS! The gift of your time, your investment, your brains, and your beliefs are invaluable. Nothing keeps us rock steady like your good faith! THANK YOU. ⬇️

An anonymous donor gifted three gifts from every single student's wishlist this past holiday season!

Students in the TLC Program shouting "I soar with WINGS. Let me tell you why."

January: #FreshStart

At the start of this new year, one thought stood out: what is old becomes new again. I embrace change—it brings freshness and innovation. But when change adds unnecessary complexity and we lose sight of its purpose, it’s often best to return to our roots - rediscover simplicity - and start again. ⬇️

Kids designed shoes in the spirit of WINGS. You're invited to a positive party! 

Students in the TLC Program shouting "I soar with WINGS. Let me tell you why."

February: #Love

I’m truly IN LOVE with the work we do to build futures for our young kids. Afterschool is THE space for fun, learning, friendships, and building future selves. Tack on the intentional social emotional and positive mental health skill-building our mentors model and teach, and we’ve got blossoming superstars! ⬇️

Our family events are packed with activities and togetherness, and there's always a crowd! 

Students in the TLC Program shouting "I soar with WINGS. Let me tell you why."

March: #GoGoGo

While everything's buzzing in programs with field trips, service projects, and graduation prep - it's go-time at Soarp (WINGS HQ). We're moving full speed ahead next year - recruiting new mentors, building partnerships, and getting creative along the way. ⬇️

Hello from Cypress Gardens! Just one of many field trips our programs experienced this year. 

Students in the TLC Program shouting "I soar with WINGS. Let me tell you why."

Come See WINGS This Spring! #OpenHouse

Experience the magic of WINGS and see our program in action. We’re on a mission to become deeply rooted in our community, and it starts with you. 

Why visit WINGS?

  • You need a boost. We PROMISE you will leave energized and hope-filled after an hour with us.
  • You think kids deserve every chance to soar. Learn how our team works with schools, families, and partners to provide limitless opportunities.
  • You want to help your community. We’re on a mission to get people talking about WINGS. When you see WINGS firsthand and share it with others, you help spread our impact. Visit a program soon!


Want to Visit A Program?

Have an hour?  Sign up here to visit a WINGS program>> Schedule a visit

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