By: You’re Worth It Conference Team
The Inspire Up “You’re Worth It” conference was more than a self-development weekend for military, veteran and first responder spouses. It was a space to breathe, feel loved and get permission to fill your cup. We’d prayed to have the ability to make a difference, but never expected how much it would impact us, too.
When we developed the idea, it started with a commitment to find a way to change at least one life. If the team could do that, it was a success in our minds. Though all of us have full-time jobs, families and endless responsibilities, we took on the challenge of planning every detail without an event company.
Finally, after endless hours of meetings, so many spreadsheets and big ideas, the weekend came to life in November 2021 in Kansas City.
Then we watched the attendees cry, hug and create new friendships while rekindling old ones. They were right where we were, soaking in the magic of connection and community. Kicking off the reception evening with dancing, singing and togetherness wasn’t just for them—it was for us too.
Not only was it our first conference, but it was the first time we’d all five been physically together as a team since, well, before the COVID-19 pandemic had begun. All of our deep friendship building and grand plans had occurred over FaceTimes and text messages. Being able to put our arms around each other was such a blessing after so long without each other.
Workshop day was a big deal because it was really important for us to give them the self-development experience of a lifetime. When we opened the doors, attendees were greeted with loud encouraging music and our crazy-excited energy, followed by confetti cannons shooting glittery happiness all around, of course.
Each workshop was poured into and re-arranged for months. It was vital for us to hit all the core things we’d seen missing. For example, we didn’t just have a facilitator teaching how to brand yourself. Participants walked away with professional headshots on the spot. Writers weren’t just lectured on how to pitch—a publisher taught new skills to potential authors and then had attendees do rapid-fire pitching at the end, with two given guaranteed published articles.
From self-defense lessons given by a retired Air Force OSI agent (which came with free Birdies for all) to cooking classes, there was something for everyone.
We think that’s really the beauty in our vision and hopes for the Inspire Up “You’re Worth It” conference and all of our future projects. Though we’re all so different in backgrounds and even ideals, the power in collaboration and lifting each other is undeniable. And everyone is worth it.
