“I know ball” — a common phrase you’ve probably heard thrown around, originating from basketball, used when someone claims to understand the game deeply. However, the ball I’m referring to here isn’t a basketball — it’s Charity Ball: the most exciting, inspiring, and meaningful annual event hosted by Enloe’s Student Council. Standing here today, I’m so honored to be part of such an amazing cause that positively impacts the Raleigh community.
When I first joined the Enloe Student Council as a freshman, I had no idea what I was getting into. From an outside perspective, Enloe Charity Ball seems like a bunch of high schoolers raising money for a charity and hosting a dance at Marbles Kids Museum, but there’s so much more behind the scenes. Through my experience, I learned that Enloe Charity Ball is more than just a silly school dance; it’s a movement where students spend hours brainstorming and executing ideas to raise money for a local nonprofit, from sending emails to hosting sports tournaments, to Christmas caroling and selling hot chocolate. This year, Charity Ball is celebrating its 20th anniversary, and we have set an ambitious goal to raise $200,000. Many people within our community have faced economic and financial difficulties this year, making it harder for us to reach our goal. However, despite this setback, our council has maintained a positive, encouraging energy, reminding us that every effort, no matter how small, has such a profound impact.
I believe the best part of Charity Ball is seeing the result of all the hard work everyone puts in and the smiles on people’s faces, knowing that we made a difference in our community. Being part of such an important organization has taught me a great deal about leadership and collaboration, but most importantly, about the importance of community. It’s so inspiring to see so many volunteers, students, and teachers come together to connect with the Raleigh community and create a change. Being a part of Enloe Charity Ball is what it truly means to be Alive with Purpose — and this is what it means to “know ball”. To know ball is to understand that this change doesn’t happen overnight; it is built through teamwork and dedication.
So yes, I know ball.