NO TAKING A BREATHER
Jaeger has always lived with what she calls "a big
balloon of belief in hard work." That ethic has garnered
rewards and made the whole process a thrill.
"That's the excitement of working so hard," she says.
"There are projects I have worked on for years, and sometimes
you get a good result and sometimes you donšt. Many times
I've worked diligently and done all the research and it just
doesn't work out. You have to pick yourself up and say, 'OK, it's
got to happen next time. It will happen next time. And I'll do
better. I'll work harder. Somehow, some way, it will work."
Ten years ago, she sketched out her plans for the
ranch. Her vision included trees, a stream, a pond, and a pool.
"People laughed," she says. "They thought I was crazy."
Today, individual donations, corporate sponsorships,
and a partnership with FAO Schwarz provide ongoing support
for Jaeger's foundation. This year's fund-raising aim is $3.2
million. Jaeger's next goal is a full-fledged endowment of $30
million.
SURVEYING THE PLAYING FIELD
The 11-bedroom ranch overlooks a gentle stream,
evergreens, and the mountains. There is a pool, too - just as
Jaeger imagined. Whitewater rafting, horseback riding, and
skiing are only a few of the available activities. Children travel
from the U.S., England, and Wales for an all-expense paid
week of fun and frolic in the therapeutic surroundings.
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The foundation's outreach extends beyond the borders
of the ranch. Shortcomings in the insurance coverage of
participants are met. A program helps defray the costs of
higher education. An 800-number provides support for the
children 24/7. And a separate family retreat takes place in the
off-season.
WINNERS
She built it, and kids do come.
Jaeger lives by a motto that her friend and contributor,
Paul Newman, often recites: "You make your own luck."
Call it luck, leg work, or lust for life, it's all good. Andrea
Jaeger attributes her success to a different L-word. That word
is "love."
"When you really look at it," she says, "it's a matter of
'have you been able to find something that you love doing?'
That is success.
"A lot of times people try to get me to compare it to
tennis, and you can't. There is no amount of trophies that you
can compare to helping a child."
The Foundation for SUCCESS recognizes The Silver Lining
Foundation with a contribution of $2,500 and applauds its
commitment to improving children's lives. Jaeger's efforts
capture the essence of what SUCCESS is all about: the
drive, determination, and diligence to make your dreams
come true.
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