After learning that her father would be deployed again with his National Guard unit, nine-year-old Taylor Pace could have felt sorry for herself. After all, her dad had just returned from a 14-month stint in Iraq a few months earlier and was now scheduled for his third tour of duty. Instead, she took action on a project that would help countless other children whose parents were also serving our country.
The idea for TayTay's Buddy Bears came to Taylor after watching a segment about a craft store on a local morning news show in May 2006. She decided she wanted to make bears for all the children in her father's unit who were deploying that October. After searching for a pattern she could replicate, she purchased fabric and stuffing with $25 of her saved allowance.
With a little help cutting and sewing from her mom and grandmother, Taylor stuffed the bears and then stitched them closed by hand. A yellow ribbon tied around the neck completed the project. In order to give one bear to each child before the unit deployed, Taylor had to have 300 made. She decided to sell the bears for two dollars each. And for each bear she sold, she made another one to give away.
Taylor worked every day of her summer break to complete the bears. In August 2006, she presented them to the other kids in her dad's unit. In addition to the ribbon, each bear included a letter with a message for the children who were about to go through what she had experienced twice before. The following is an excerpt from the note:
"Hi! My name is Taylor and I'm nine years old. I live in Winchester. I made the TayTay Buddy Bear you got today. My dad is leaving with your dad. My dad was gone last year to Iraq. I was really sad and cried a lot while my dad was gone. ÖWhenever you get really sad and missing your dad, hug your Buddy Bear really tight 'cause everybody needs a buddy! And be proud, not sad, 'cause your dad's a hero too!"
The response to her generosity was overwhelming. While hundreds of kids dove into bags full of colorfully camouflaged and patriotic printed bears, Taylor stood quietly wiping away tears. She did not understand why parents were crying after reading her letter. She had only wanted to help, and did not realize that not only had she succeeded in helping her fellow children of the soldiers, but had inspired patriotism and pride in everyone touched by her bears.
That same emotion was felt as Taylor won the Youth Award at the Central Kentucky Volunteer Awards last April. There was not a dry eye in the audience as Taylor accepted the honor bestowed upon her through this annual awards event hosted by United Way of the Bluegrass.
Taylor was one of nine winners from 45 nominees in various categories that recognize hands-on service throughout Central Kentucky. These individuals and groups are celebrated for their countless hours spent selflessly changing lives through volunteer work.
Taylor continues to make her Buddy Bears for children in other units across the state. She, like many other volunteers in the Bluegrass, took initiative and is making a difference. Do you know someone who has gone above and beyond for others? Help recognize these everyday heroes by nominating them for a volunteer award.
United Way is now accepting nominations. All nominees will be recognized and winners announced during the Central Kentucky Volunteer Awards Breakfast during National Volunteer Week on April 29 at Crowne Plaza Lexington.
The categories for awards are Individual and Group Service, Family, Youth, Corporate, Faith-based and Nonprofit Organization. Log on to www.uwbg.org to download an application or call 859-233-4460.