ATTENDING DAY ON THE TERRACE!
Typically, you see me in the studio, counting down “3, 2, 1” before the cameras roll! But this weekend, I traded my usual role as a national, television talk show host for that of a model, sashaying down the runway with my Service Club of Chicago sisters at Day on The Terrace this past Monday!
I’m overwhelmed with joy and love for all the hard work my friends put into this fashionable night! Scoring the venue, The Peninsula Chicago, gave the show a city backdrop that looked unreal, where myself and guests enjoyed lovely food, drinks, and conversations. The event was completely sold out, which made me so privileged to be amongst those who care so much about our contributing our part, in bettering the community and our city!
My dress, which I had the honor to wear on the runway, was a piece that I’ll never forget modeling! The catwalk I must say is no easy feat, but it’s worth it for all the fundraising Service Club of Chicago does for its local, partnered organizations.
Off the runway, I got to meet some lovely people who also made their appearance at the event! A group of Marines I bumped into was a conversation that sparked such inspiration and hope! And of course, my television personality friends that make Chicago television its best, including Courtney Hall from NBC Chicago Today, Dawn Housbrouck from FOX Chicago, and Chicago media personality and journalist, Anna Dalvantes. I always smile thinking about how lovely, hardworking, and incredible these ladies are beyond their roles!
Last year’s event was spectacular, but this year took it to new heights. The energy, the support, and the contributions were more impactful than ever. The Service Club Together, it makes me want to ask you the questions, how can you leverage the table you are at to make change?
CREATING A RUNWAY FOR CHANGE!
MISSION OF THE SERVICE CLUB:
The Service Club of Chicago is an all-volunteer, women-led charitable organization which has continually served the needs of Chicago and its surrounding communities since 1890. Our mission is to award grants to Chicagoland’s 501(c)(3) organizations that will expand their facilities, improve their equipment and initiate new programs, thereby uplifting the community as a whole.
Keeping Note!
Baylor is keeping note!
If you haven’t seen, Baylor Magazine’s latest release of their “Class Notes” column highlighted a piece of my story! Even David was featured this time alongside me!
Baylor University, as you know, holds an incredibly special place in my heart. The three golden years I spent at Baylor, meeting lifelong friends and colleagues through my unique plate of activities and interests, were ones I wouldn’t trade for anything else. In all the hard-work it’s taken to achieve my dream in sharing impactful stories, Baylor was one of the places that supported me in making this possible.
I hope younger eyes reading my name on pages of Baylor Magazine are able to take inspiration, and pave the way to making a difference!
Dear Twenty-One Year Old Whit || WITH WHIT
The magic of returning to the places that shape us is incredibly special. For my career and the greater circle of people I’ve met through television, Good Morning America (GMA) was one of those places that gave me the foundation to launch a show of my own. I was lucky enough to revisit during my time in New York City MC’ing at the Power of One Gala!
The beautiful lessons began immediately from my first trip to New York City. High-school Whitney walked in with the courage to chase the vision of being a talk show host. You’d be surprised to know I was there for a DECA event! I found GMA through a chance encounter meeting a fellow Baylor alumni who worked there. Magically, GMA worked its way back into my path, becoming the dot point that would lead next to an internship a few years later.
“Baylor in New York!” had me, twenty-one-year-old Whit, in a pool of countless opportunities, and getting to explore those with my peers. It was the internship that made the city dream come to life! Not just the aesthetic, but stepping into the shadow of the valuable people who made the show possible, was life-changing to witness. Now, many of them are dear friends!
Stepping into the studio again was such a warm welcome back! The hugs, incredible talent in front of the camera and behind the scenes, and even rocking out to Darius Rucker, made my return to my old stomping grounds incredibly special. It felt like coming home, seeing familiar faces and reminiscing about my early, twenty-one-year-old intern days. This bite of the Big Apple I made tastes even sweeter now, full of experience and cherished memories, that I am forever grateful for!
Whitney EMCEE’s in Times Square!
School has made its wrap! But before we headed into summer mode, we got to look back and celebrate all the hard work and academic success students had completed this year! It was my honor to be a part of this celebration, where this week, I was able to be the Special Guest Mistress of Ceremonies, leading the 3rd Annual, The Power of One Gala for Common Denominator.
Common Denominator, truly fulfills its motto, “rising to the equation!” As a fully volunteer-based mathematics program, they are dedicated to their mission of providing math and mentorship to in-need middle schoolers struggling with the impact of learning loss.
The gala, taking place in Times Square, at the New York Marriott Marquis, shined light on these students, who have shown adversity through educational, economic hardship, and disadvantage to achieve success in mathematics. Hosting conversations of recognition for these students will call them to ignite, real, and transformational change that with no doubt, they can make possible!
This event is crucial to keep Common Denominator going. In the past, they have raised $313,000 in donations from this event, and I am very excited to learn what our 2024 Gala will do for this nonprofit.
Kids, Summer, Healthy Lifestyle, WITH WHIT
CHECK OUT MY STORY ON FETE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE ABOUT HI-FIVE SPORTS CLUB CHICAGO!
Summer has officially kicked off! And I’m here to introduce the wonderful, Hi-Five Sports Club for your kids to join this summer, uniting our great city and the nation’s youth as a whole! My kids have had the absolute joy in attending the Chicago location.
Hi-Five has served the community as a vehicle for improving children's current & future well-being. Now more than ever, there is an urgent need for children to be physically active and disconnected from technology. Experiences and skills gained through sports are often forgotten or ignored, and a generation of children needs to catch up on life lessons that would be instrumental to their personal growth.
Hi-Five Sports chicago:
Easy Ways to Encourage Kids Into Healthy Lifestyles
Article Written by MomsTribute Inc.
& Katie Clark
Raising active, healthy children while juggling work responsibilities can be challenging. Finding activities that are safe, fun, and educational for your kids can often feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. You need the help of the best blog for busy moms at work. Look no further! This blog is going to recommend a super nationwide venue: Enter Hi-Five Sports Clubs, a game-changer for busy working moms with kids who are bursting with energy and curiosity.
With 17 locations across eight states, Hi-Five Sports Clubs have become a trusted name for engaging and enriching after-school activities, summer camps, sports training, and even birthday parties. Whether your child is a preschooler or a teen, Hi-Five offers various activities catering to their developmental needs and interests. Their mission of promoting a healthy, active lifestyle for kids is in line with the team here at MomsTribute.com and is listed on our Kid Friendly Venues app, and that’s why we are glad to shout their praise from the rooftops as one of the best places to visit with kids!
Get Kids Moving
One of the core missions of Hi-Five Sports Clubs is to get kids up and moving. In today’s digital age, where screens often dominate our children’s lives, physical activity is more important than ever. Hi-Five introduces children to a variety of sports, including basketball, football, and soccer, ensuring they stay active while learning the fundamentals of teamwork and sportsmanship.
But it doesn’t stop at traditional sports. Hi-Five also offers a medley of other activities, from musical chairs and Lego-building sessions to delightful bouncy houses and open gym play, ensuring there’s something for every kid. These activities not only promote physical fitness but also help in developing cognitive and motor skills.
Lessons For Life
Hi-Five Sports Clubs prioritize physical activity, but I can also recommend their other achievements. They aim to instill life lessons that will benefit children in the long term. Team-building exercises teach the importance of collaboration and communication. Through sports, kids learn about dedication, perseverance, and how to gracefully handle both wins and losses.
With positive role models of coaches and mentors, Hi-Five creates an environment where children can interact with those guiding them and build self-confidence when praise and encouragement is given. The focus is on nurturing well-rounded individuals prepared for the various challenges life may throw at them.
A Safe Space for Kids
For working moms, safety is paramount when choosing an extracurricular activity for their children. Hi-Five Sports Clubs provide a secure and supportive environment. Background-checked, experienced staff members ensure that every child is cared for and given the attention they deserve.
Additionally, the clubs maintain high standards of hygiene and safety protocols, making them a reliable choice for parents concerned about their child’s well-being.
Catering to a Wide Age Range
Another standout feature of Hi-Five Sports Clubs is their ability to cater to a wide age range. From preschoolers to teens, there are activities designed to suit every developmental stage. This means you don’t have to juggle multiple programs for kids of different ages—depending on what activities your local sports club offers, Hi-Five can be a one-stop solution for all your children. You’ll want to be sure to check into what your nearest location has to offer.
Activities Galore
Preschoolers can enjoy basic motor skill exercises, introductory sports, and fun games designed to get them moving and interacting with peers.
School-age kids can participate in structured sports training, team-building exercises, and creative activities like Lego building.
Teens can engage in more advanced sports training, leadership activities, and games that challenge both their physical and cognitive abilities.
Building a Community
Hi-Five Sports Clubs pride themselves on fostering a sense of community among their members. Joining a Hi-Five club means becoming part of a larger family that values health, education, and teamwork. Kids build lasting friendships, and parents connect with like-minded individuals, creating a supportive network within the community.
Business-minded working moms will want to keep in mind that Hi-Five Sports Clubs aren’t just for kids; they offer exciting franchise opportunities for those passionate about making a difference in their communities. With 17 locations in eight states, Hi-Five is expanding rapidly and looking for partners who share their vision of promoting healthy, active lifestyles for children.
But they don’t stop there! At Hi-Five they believe in giving back. Local franchises, such as Chicago North Shore Hi-Five, regularly offer scholarships to kids in need of assistance. The details of these can be obtained by contacting their head office via their website. They also support local charities and work with local PTAs to help school-aged children. At times, they have even offered their programs FREE to everyone!
A Haven
In a world where balancing work and family can be overwhelming, Hi-Five Sports Clubs provide a haven for both kids and parents. Offering a variety of activities, expert curation, and a commitment to safety and community, Hi-Five is the perfect solution for working moms seeking fun, educational, and engaging activities for their children. Don’t forget to download the free KFV app to check out the best kids friendly venues in your area!
Don’t forget to download the free KFV app to check out the best kids friendly venues in your area!
Learn more about Hi-Five Sports Chicago here!
Modeling for a Cause, A SILVER LINING FOUNDATION
Whitney, an advocate for social causes, walked the runway as a model in a charity fashion show for A Silver Lining Foundation. The event, dedicated to raising awareness and funds for breast cancer testing and research, was a powerful platform for Reynolds to showcase her support for a cause close to her heart.
Reynolds' participation as a model in A Silver Lining Foundation's fashion show not only brought attention to the important issue of breast cancer but also highlighted the significance of early detection through regular testing. Several well-known figures in the media industry, used her platforms to amplify the message of the foundation and encourage others to prioritize their health and well-being.
A Silver Lining Foundation Founder: Dr. Sandy Goldberg
Through her participation as a model and advocate, Whitney Reynolds not only brought attention to the importance of breast cancer testing but also demonstrated the power of empathy, solidarity, and community in addressing critical health issues. Her impact will continue to resonate, serving as a beacon of hope and inspiration for those affected by breast cancer and advocating for a brighter, healthier future for all.
Tim Tebow, GIVING BACK
Golf.Give.Gala.
The Golf.Give.Gala was held May 21, 2023 along the Fox River in beautiful downtown Saint Charles, IL. A star-studded Gala and Auction was at the historic Hotel Baker, with a Concert to follow at the Arcada Theatre, a Chicagoland treasure. The night benefited the Tim Tebow Foundation. MORE HERE.
WISH LIST, RITUAL ZERO PROOF
To eat too, and have adventures. We like to wrestle with our kids and climb mountains. We like to make art and we like to stay out too late laughing. We, by the way, are three friends, two of whom share a bed and a child. We're passionate foodies and damn good cooks, so Ritual started in our kitchens.
The goal wasn't to replace liquor —bite your tongue! — but to add a new tool to our cocktail kit. Another way to mark a moment.
Simple enough, right? Yeah, not so much. It took more than a year and hundreds of iterations to perfect our recipes.
We learned how to blend jambu and prickly ash, how to extract the essence of blue agave, reduce the oil in juniper and heighten the perfume of pine. We taste-tested vanilla from Madagascar against vanilla from China. We sought guidance from master chefs and held tasting sessions for Chicago's best bartenders.
We weren't interested in a glass of "something." We're not interested in new-age goop that defies explanation, or fancy spa water that bears no resemblance to liquor.
We weren’t satisfied until it tasted and smelled and felt like the real thing. A new way to make an old favorite (or an Old Fashioned.)
Inclusion with Gaelynn Lea
Powerful words from Gaelynn Lea when it comes to inclusion! Watch FULL SHOW here!
This Week!
The Long Haul, people have gone the distance and aren't giving up despite the race. We sit down in famous boxer to hear how is challenging childhood let him into a career where the whole goal is to "get back up." Plus meet a woman who is in it to win it for complete strangers (in prison)!
This and more coming up tonight on Lakeshore PBS! For full market list CLICK HERE
Dear Class of 2020
Hey class of 2020! It’s Whitney here, host of The Whitney Reynolds Show on public television.
I know many of you are feeling the pressures of our current global state. The newness of our world today reminds me of how I felt after my own graduation: anxious and unsure of what was to come.
But I can assure you class of 2020, you are fighters. You entered this world in a new Millenium, and now you’re leaving your childhood behind in a new decade. You’ve never shied away from a challenge before, don’t start now!
It can be difficult for all of us when our accomplishments go unrecognized. But remember, the work matters more than the recognition.
One day you will receive the recognition you deserve. Have patience and faith in your dreams. Always know, your story matters and this is just another chapter. Congratulations class of 2020!”
Stopping The Stigma
In today's episode, we showcase that we all have the power to eliminate the negative stigmas that hold us back. We sit down with Dr. Holly, a television personality, weight-loss expert and author of "State of Slim", who shares how she helps people lose weight by adding more self-compassion to their internal narratives. We are also joined by former Cubs Manager Joe Maddon and mental health advocate Dimple Patel, who use their experiences to spark conversations about reducing the stigmas around mental health in their communities. As therapist Dr. Casey Gamboni shares his methods behind changing his clients' stigmas everyday, this edition of The Whitney Reynolds show is packed with tips to help you become an agent of positive change by overcoming the stigmas in your life!
Non-Profits WE ARE HERE FOR YOU!
Whitney Reynolds Show is dedicated to provoking positive change + is a safe space for stories. Personally, Whitney is dedicated to seeing non-profits thrive. She volunteers with several in Chicago.
We are all in this together. With that being said, we as a show have been investigating where we can help during these hard moments. We’d love to be a mouthpiece for all the amazing non-profits needing some extra love.
Here’s the deal:
You must be a non-profit or be creating something for the greater good of humanity.
Follow us HERE on instagram @whitney_reynolds
Send us a flyer or pic… with a web link to a call to action
If selected we will make a shareable video for you, post your flyer and tag up your link with a call to action. This will play on our instagram stories and we will select several daily.
Sending you virtual love + light and BIG HUGS!
Lakeshore PBS Women's Conference
Lakeshore Public Media does it again… Another year of amazing speakers and support for WOMEN! This year I had the honor of emceeing. The energy in the room was positive and it was so cool to see women supporting women. For more info CLICK HERE!
