When I approached the director of the Urban Warriors program which pairs vets and at-risk youth, I though our success with veterans would make introducing a new program easier. He said, "No." He said, "I'd have to get buy-in from staff, vets, the kids, their parents. I don't see it happening. Sorry." What I didn't realize was that 15 feet away, in her office, was one of my Reiki students. Somehow my selling points sunk in enough for the director to send out an email to staff and she jumped on it. 

Here's a photo recap of our first event.

Saw this on a car outside. Couldn't agree more. It turns out a friend of some of the kids we met had been shot and killed the night before. Reiki is needed here. 

Inside I found a warm welcome. I was early, so I got in a game. I'm pretty sure Alexis let me win. 

Diana handled promotion and parental consent for those under 18. Love Diana. 

First we explained Reiki in a group setting and answered questions, then everyone who wanted to try it received a 10-minute session. With 14 recipients, the most common responses were, "I feel so relaxed," and, "I want to learn how to do that!" We're working on it. 

Big love to Diana, Kate and Jerry for helping to make this happen! Here's hoping it's the first of many Reiki events with this YMCA. 

If you'd like to join the Reiki Brigade or arrange to have a presentation and/or sessions offered at your school, precinct, office or event, visit this page.