Vanguard Students in Free Enterprise http://vusife.org We are Vanguard Universityâs local chapter of Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE), an international non-profit organization that works in partnership with business and higher education. SIFE mobilizes students to discover their own potential by creating economic opportunity for others through community outreach projects. SIFE is active on 1,800 college and university campuses in 48 countries. Fri, 21 May 2010 13:56:00 +0000 http://snappages.com en Competition team places at nationals http://vusife.org/blog/2010/05/21/competition-team-places-at-nationals http://vusife.org/blog/2010/05/21/competition-team-places-at-nationals Fri, 21 May 2010 13:56:00 +0000 http://vusife.org/blog/2010/05/21/competition-team-places-at-nationals
Thanks to the presenters, who put in countless hours fine-tuning your skills - and to Mikey Wills, whose design skills seriously contributed to the win. Thanks also to [...]]]>
Thanks to the presenters, who put in countless hours fine-tuning your skills - and to Mikey Wills, whose design skills seriously contributed to the win. Thanks also to Jeremy and Toby for writing such a fantastic script for the team this year.

]]> Introducing the 2010-11 Leadership Team http://vusife.org/blog/2010/04/16/introducing-the-2010-11-leadership-team http://vusife.org/blog/2010/04/16/introducing-the-2010-11-leadership-team Fri, 16 Apr 2010 19:51:00 +0000 Toby Labanow http://vusife.org/blog/2010/04/16/introducing-the-2010-11-leadership-team Advantage Sales and Marketing. We’ve also been conducting very successful [...]]]> Advantage Sales and Marketing. We’ve also been conducting very successful bake sales and selling Juice It Up! coupon books, with various coupons including ones for 2 free smoothies. If you would like to purchase one of these books for only $10, or support us financially through a donation or sponsorship, contact us!

Also, we would like to officially introduce the 2010 – 2011 leadership team! These new members have been handpicked by this year’s team to be the best and the brightest. They have undergone a rigorous application and interview process, and we have the highest expectations for what this team can accomplish!




The 2010-11 SIFE Leadership Team:

Matt Angell
Ken Chen
Matt Edmondson
Kendra Harden
Brennan Hawkins
Andrew Kroeger
Will McKenney
Orianne Sagrada
Ben Westling


Congratulations to the new team!


]]> Green Up Your Dorm Winner http://vusife.org/blog/2010/04/13/green-up-your-dorm-winner http://vusife.org/blog/2010/04/13/green-up-your-dorm-winner Tue, 13 Apr 2010 15:06:21 +0000 http://vusife.org/blog/2010/04/13/green-up-your-dorm-winner Environmental Sustainability projects have come to an end. In Fall 2009, we launched an online video contest called Green Up Your Dorm, which challenged college students from Southern [...]]]> Environmental Sustainability projects have come to an end. In Fall 2009, we launched an online video contest called Green Up Your Dorm, which challenged college students from Southern California to submit videos of their less-than-eco-friendly dorm room to YouTube for a chance to win a green dorm room makeover by Rachel Hulan, owner of Path Designs. We had a panel of environmental leaders judge the videos and the winners were announced at the 2010 Environmental Sustainability Conference. Since this time, designers Rachel Hulan and Julia Buschmann have been hard at work making grand prize winner Chris Randolph's dorm room environmentally friendly. Thanks to their dedication, and the leadership of Environmental Sustainability Project Manager Lisa Casimiro, Chris now enjoys an eco-friendly and stylish dorm room.

"Thank you to Path Designs' Rachel Hulan and Julia Buschmann for helping us in the makeover process for the Green Up Your Dorm contest. The winner, Chris Randolph, is surely benefitting from the new supplies he received to be eco-friendly. It was an honor working with both Rachel and Julia, and we greatly appreciate the time they've given to VUSIFE!

As a team, we would also like to say thank you to The Container Store for providing items from their eco-friendly home line; Way Basics for their paper-made cubes; New Leaf of America for their Energy Star lamp and lights; and Wallwords for their wall decorations. We could have not have done this makeover without their support!"

-Lisa Casimiro, Environmental Sustainability Project Manager


To view photos of Chris's dorm room transformation, check out the Environmental Sustainability project page.

]]> Resume Pit Stop Winner! http://vusife.org/blog/2010/04/05/resume-pit-stop-winner http://vusife.org/blog/2010/04/05/resume-pit-stop-winner Mon, 05 Apr 2010 20:37:00 +0000 Toby Labanow http://vusife.org/blog/2010/04/05/resume-pit-stop-winner Vanguard University Career Center received helpful guidance on how to improve their [...]]]> Vanguard University Career Center received helpful guidance on how to improve their resumes and can use this feedback to experience greater success in the job search.


There is a lot going on at VUSIFE. We are ecstatic to have received the title of Regional Champion, but we realize there is much work to be done to get to the National Exposition in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Be sure to check out our newly updated Competition page for more details on the National Exposition in Minneapolis and how you can help get us there.

Also, check out testimonials from this year’s SIFE leadership team on why they are glad they were a part of SIFE. We are always accepting new members, so if you’d like to be involved in next year’s SIFE team, be sure to fill out the membership application. Next year’s team is poised to be the best yet, so you won’t want to miss out on how this team will be positively impacting the campus and the community.

]]> SIFE Mixer Wednesday http://vusife.org/blog/2010/03/22/sife-mixer-wednesday http://vusife.org/blog/2010/03/22/sife-mixer-wednesday Mon, 22 Mar 2010 21:07:00 +0000 Toby Labanow http://vusife.org/blog/2010/03/22/sife-mixer-wednesday
Followers of this blog know that the students of Vanguard University's SIFE team do some amazing work and produce outstanding projects to positively impact the community. This year alone, VUSIFE has helped educate 50 single parents and families about eating healthy while living on a budget, made 180 people more aware of local socially responsible companies, and inspired 425 youth to pursue entrepreneurship. With statistics like these, it is clear to see that being in SIFE is a priceless experience.

As this year's leadership team wraps up the academic year, we have begun planning for the future and preparing for the 2010-2011 leadership team to take charge. If you would like more information on how to be a part of a group that gives you real world business experience, as well as unforgettable memories, attend the SIFE Mixer Wednesday, March 24th at 9:30 pm in the Forrest Room (behind Needham Chapel). At the Mixer, you'll hear how this year's team has benefited from being in SIFE and get a chance to connect with other SIFE members. There will be food, games, and a whole lot of SIFE spirit!

If you're interested in taking the BUSN 430 (SIFE) class next semester, check out the Application page. Email your resume to info@vusife.org and complete the online application. Finalists will be contacted soon after for an interview.

SIFE is hands-down the best club on campus. Ensure your place on the leadership team by applying today!

]]> Congratulations to Vanguard SIFE http://vusife.org/blog/2010/03/19/congratulations-to-vanguard-sife http://vusife.org/blog/2010/03/19/congratulations-to-vanguard-sife Fri, 19 Mar 2010 22:12:00 +0000 http://vusife.org/blog/2010/03/19/congratulations-to-vanguard-sife
We will be posting more details very soon... but in the meantime, check out some of the photos from the event and the celebration afterward. [...]]]>
Congratulations to the entire Vanguard SIFE team. We've been named as Regional Champions and will be advancing to the National Competition in Minneapolis in May.

We will be posting more details very soon... but in the meantime, check out some of the photos from the event and the celebration afterward.

]]> Resume Pit Stop http://vusife.org/blog/2010/03/03/resume-pit-stop http://vusife.org/blog/2010/03/03/resume-pit-stop Wed, 03 Mar 2010 23:22:00 +0000 Toby Labanow http://vusife.org/blog/2010/03/03/resume-pit-stop Vanguard University Career Center, who will use their extensive knowledge and [...]]]>
Could your resume use a tune up? VUSIFE is hosting our first ever virtual Resume Pit Stop! From now until March 10th, 2010, send us your resume and we will forward it to the Vanguard University Career Center, who will use their extensive knowledge and expertise to tweak your resume into one that will catch the attention of employers everywhere. In order to gain additional insight, the Career Center would like to encourage you to schedule a 10 minute appointment with them during the week of March 7th. If you take advantage of this amazing opportunity, VUSIFE will enter your name into a drawing for a $50 cash prize!

This is all part of our Success Skills project area, led by Project Manager Heather Hernandez. It is our hope that through this event, you will be better equipped to find the right job for you.

To participate in the Resume Pit Stop, email your resume to info@vusife.org. In order to get entered for the $50 cash prize, stop by the Vanguard Career Center and talk with a counselor about your resume and future job opportunities. Also, be sure to check out these additional materials from the Career Center for building your resume before you schedule your appointment.

]]> Bulls and Bears Continued Success http://vusife.org/blog/2010/03/01/bulls-and-bears-continued-success http://vusife.org/blog/2010/03/01/bulls-and-bears-continued-success Mon, 01 Mar 2010 18:13:00 +0000 Christian Talbott http://vusife.org/blog/2010/03/01/bulls-and-bears-continued-success project from last year: a board game based on the
concept of Chutes and Ladders that educates students
on the basics of the U.S. stock market. This game,
called Bulls and Bears, was created entirely by SIFE
members [...]]]> project from last year: a board game based on the
concept of Chutes and Ladders that educates students
on the basics of the U.S. stock market. This game,
called Bulls and Bears, was created entirely by SIFE
members through a website called thegamecrafter.
com. The target audience for the game is Junior High
and High School students.

Thus far, we have played the game with 30 students
from an after-school tutoring program called MIKA. We
currently have two more events with MIKA scheduled
at the end of February. We have also played this game with students from the Boys and Girls Club, and we hope to expand our reach to other community organizations. All events thus far have gone very well and the kids have expressed their newfound understanding for the stock market.

]]> Justice in Action Conference http://vusife.org/blog/2010/02/26/justice-in-action-conference http://vusife.org/blog/2010/02/26/justice-in-action-conference Fri, 26 Feb 2010 13:04:00 +0000 Addie Coffman http://vusife.org/blog/2010/02/26/justice-in-action-conference
On March 5-6, 2010, Dr. Ron Sider, a respected and passionate [...]]]>
On March 5-6, 2010, Dr. Ron Sider, a respected and passionate advocate of holistic biblical faith in the Christian world as well as the founder and president of Evangelicals for Social Action, will be speaking on Gender Equality and the Church.

CWS will be partnering with SIFE’s Business Ethics sector in holding a silent auction and hosting a discussion panel for the conference. The proceeds from the auction will be used in furthering women’s studies education and awareness both locally and globally.

]]> Competition Practice Begins! http://vusife.org/blog/2010/02/14/competition-practice-begins http://vusife.org/blog/2010/02/14/competition-practice-begins Sun, 14 Feb 2010 17:16:00 +0000 Bonni Stachowiak http://vusife.org/blog/2010/02/14/competition-practice-begins regional competition on March 19.

From left-to-right: Jon McCormick, Natacha Cabrera, Gabriel De La Puente, Addie Coffman, Lisa Casimiro, and Jeremy Franz.

Our Business Advisor Dave Stachowiak and Faculty Advisor Bonni Stachowiak coach the team every Monday night. Their duties include filming the students' presentations and giving them personalized instruction on areas of strength and improvement. Dave devised an acronym which describes five fundamental tips on how to become a stronger presenter:

Smile. It may seem simple, but a smile goes a long way to conveying energy and passion about your message.

Hands. Most people don’t know what to do with their hands when they’re talking. One good technique is to use gestures, but to return to a “home base” stance, or a “neutral stance”, with your hands at your sides when you’re not in the middle of gesturing about something.

Enthusiasm. As the adage goes, “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” Your enthusiasm strengthens your message and helps to get the audience engaged in hearing more about the team’s results.

Eye-contact. Instead of trying to look everyone in the room in the eye, which would likely result in a pretty sketchy looking expression on your face as you quickly scanned from person to person, connect for 3-5 seconds with specific people who are sitting in different places in the room. Having stronger eye contact with 7-12 individuals in the room will appear as if you’re engaging with the entire room than if your eyes flit nervously around the room in a seemingly random manner.

Projection. The volume of your voice is going to be lower when you’re talking with a small group than when you’re trying to fill a large hotel conference room, like you will be for competition. Projection is crucial and occurs when you think about breathing in deeply (your stomach/gut should extend) and using your diaphragm to support your loud voice.

If you are interested in attending the competition this year, or in watching the team in their final practice, please contact us. We'd love to hear your feedback about our soon-to-be award winning team and we hope to see you at the regional competition!

]]> The Success behind Networking Night http://vusife.org/blog/2010/02/07/the-success-behind-networking-night http://vusife.org/blog/2010/02/07/the-success-behind-networking-night Sun, 07 Feb 2010 14:42:00 +0000 Heather Hernandez http://vusife.org/blog/2010/02/07/the-success-behind-networking-night Project Manager of Success Skills, I had the opportunity to plan Networking Night: Skills You Need To Get Ahead for my first event. It was a great evening, and all those who attended said they really benefited from what they learned. [...]]]> Project Manager of Success Skills, I had the opportunity to plan Networking Night: Skills You Need To Get Ahead for my first event. It was a great evening, and all those who attended said they really benefited from what they learned.
There were many steps that had to occur in order for the event to come together. Below are some key points that I learned when planning Networking Night.

1. Remember That You Are Part Of A Team: I can say in all honesty that without my SIFE team members, the event would have been an overwhelming burden to plan. With their help, it was the furthest thing from this. Vice President of Team Sustainability and Projects Andrew Ramirez was there every step of the way. During meetings, my team members suggested a handful of great ideas and tips. On the night of the event, we were without tablecloths so one team member drove back to her house and brought the tablecloths to me just in time. My team members’ immense generosity and willingness to help made my experience in planning the event that much more enjoyable.

2. If Plan A Doesn’t Work, Go To Plan B: I have had my share of event planning over the years and one crucial thing I have learned is that things are always changing and unexpected happenings do occur. Rather than stressing, I take a deep breath and think of ways to amend the situation. The day of the event, I had two table facilitators who were not able to attend the event. I knew that they played a critical role during the evening and that somehow, I needed to find replacements. It just so happened that a faculty member had thought she was a table facilitator all along and to my surprise, this was just what I needed. She was a wonderful presenter and her table was filled with perspective listeners who greatly enjoyed hearing her expertise.

3. If One Person Benefited, Then It Was A Success: I tend to care more about the numbers of attendees of my event than the actual outcome. This, I have learned, is a negative outlook. I had hoped to get thirty at the event and we ended up having forty-five throughout the whole evening. Although I surpassed my estimations, I had to keep in mind that the point was not how many seats were filled, but if people were learning from the event. Even if only one person left feeling better about themselves in the job search, then all my hard work had paid off.

]]> An Eventful Week for VUSIFE! http://vusife.org/blog/2010/01/31/an-eventful-week-for-vusife http://vusife.org/blog/2010/01/31/an-eventful-week-for-vusife Sun, 31 Jan 2010 19:12:00 +0000 Toby Labanow http://vusife.org/blog/2010/01/31/an-eventful-week-for-vusife
On Wednesday, January 27th, Market Economics Project Manager Christian Talbott and a team of SIFE members went to play the newly designed Bulls and Bears board game with a group of at-risk youth at MIKA Community Development Corporation. This game teaches kids about the fluctuating stock market through interactive methods. Since sharing the secrets of saving money with these students last November through Budgetball, the youth at MIKA were sharp, using their new found financial knowledge to excel at this game. Watching the expressions of these kids as they began to understand financial and economic concepts was truly priceless. Christian and his team will continue to visit the kids at MIKA in order to foster relationships with this wonderful organization and its even more wonderful students.

On Friday, January 29th, the second annual Environmental Sustainability Conference was held at Newport Mesa Church on Vanguard University’s campus. This event was extremely successful in the past and was definitely a challenge for Environmental Sustainability Project Manager Lisa Casimiro to top. Through her immense dedication and the combined efforts of the entire SIFE team, this year’s event was an even bigger success. Keynote speaker Martin Diedrich of Kéan Coffee gave an inspiring presentation on environmental innovation and creativity in small business. Attendees enjoyed various breakout sessions and a low-carbon catered lunch by Bon Appétit, followed by an interactive panel discussion, led by Jamie Welsh of 10% Solution. The response was overwhelmingly positive, as participants left with the skills and knowledge to create a more sustainable future.

It’s been a busy week, but there’s still much work to be done. Competition time is right around the corner, and with a team of outstanding SIFE members ready to begin weekly practices, we have a bright future ahead. Be sure to stay tuned to the VUSIFE.org website for the latest details on what this extraordinary team is accomplishing through the positive power of business.


]]> Tips on Becoming a Successful Project Manager http://vusife.org/blog/2010/01/08/tips-on-becoming-a-successful-project-manager http://vusife.org/blog/2010/01/08/tips-on-becoming-a-successful-project-manager Fri, 08 Jan 2010 10:51:00 +0000 Megan Allee http://vusife.org/blog/2010/01/08/tips-on-becoming-a-successful-project-manager


1. Don’t procrastinate: I think the number one tip to [...]]]>


1. Don’t procrastinate: I think the number one tip to become a successful project manager is do not procrastinate! You will be surprised how quickly time flies.

2. When stressed, ask for help: Each member of our team is blessed with unique gifts, and I will be the first one to admit that I do not possess all of those qualities. It has been great to see how everyone has played a unique part in this team, lending a hand to one another.

3. Write down all of your ideas: There have been so many times that I have thought of ideas, but forgotten them before I had the chance to write them down. With so many things going on, take time to scribe your ideas on paper or on a computer so you have them for future use.

4. Don’t discredit any ideas, for even the most obscure ideas could be useful: During our meetings, one of the most important things that Bonni, our advisor, stressed was not to shut down any ideas, no matter how unconventional they may seem. This has been such an important rule for our team because through some of those obscure ideas or statements, we have come up with some great ideas for our projects.

5. Make goals for yourself, and try to keep on track with those goals: This tip is also very important, because it is easy to look at a list of things that you need to accomplish, and suddenly become overwhelmed. It is important to make a schedule of when particular goals need to be accomplished, and stick to it.


]]> Reflections on Last Semester http://vusife.org/blog/2010/01/01/reflections-on-last-semester http://vusife.org/blog/2010/01/01/reflections-on-last-semester Fri, 01 Jan 2010 14:28:12 +0000 Addie Coffman http://vusife.org/blog/2010/01/01/reflections-on-last-semester

1. Start Early - Procrastination is the enemy of most project managers, so always be sure to start planning your project early. There is always A LOT to be done, even when a project is far from the deadline. You will thank yourself in the end for planning ahead.

2. Sometimes Friends are your Best Resources - When planning the Global Awareness Fair, I was in need of companies to exhibit at the last minute. Little did I know that a fellow classmate has his own business that is environmentally focused and was looking for an event like this to get his company name heard! You never know who can come to your aid, and that person might be closer than you think.

3. Ask for Help - It is easy to think you can do everything yourself. Many times, we have co-workers or friends that have certain skills that would be ideal in certain project areas. I had to learn that, when I had very little time to complete a task, I could have asked someone else with more time to help lighten the workload.

4. Marketing is Key - Take advantage of the many ways to market an event. Facebook and Myspace are simple ways to create an invite and send it to hundreds of people, who can then send it to thousands more. Ask your marketing team to write a press release for local papers, or make announcements in your school or workplace. The more exposure, the better.

5. Expect and You Will Achieve - When working on a project, always do everything expecting greatness in return. A positive attitude can go a long way. If your project is fun in planning, it will be fun for the people involved.

]]> First Time Planning a Project? http://vusife.org/blog/2009/12/20/first-time-planning-a-project http://vusife.org/blog/2009/12/20/first-time-planning-a-project Sun, 20 Dec 2009 14:30:00 +0000 Shannon Johnson http://vusife.org/blog/2009/12/20/first-time-planning-a-project
We start the new year rolling with two of our biggest projects, Green Up Your Dorm and the Environmental Sustainability Conference. Along with these, we will continue to build on previous projects, develop new ones, and prepare for our annual competition. We have a busy yet electrifying semester ahead. With that in mind, I would like to give some tips that have proven successful for our project managers to aid those who may be doing this for the first time.

1. Find a Mentor
Since you may be unfamiliar with how to plan projects, it would be very beneficial to have a mentor with experience in the planning process that can guide you. Finding a mentor who works in a similar field who would benefit from working with you would be ideal because it would give them much more motivation and gratification.

2. Use the Right Computer Programs
There are many software systems out there that are useful when planning events. A few that that everyone should be familiar with are Remember the Milk, Event Bright and Google Docs. These will not only help in keeping you organized, but help all who are involved as well. A couple other recommended software programs are TaskJuggler and dotProject.

3. Make Sure Details are Clarified
Before you begin a task, it is essential to understand what you are trying to accomplish and how you are going to measure your results. If you try to figure these out after getting started, you might find that it is too late. From the very beginning, make sure everyone on your team is clear on every detail.

4. Set Specific Times and Dates for Deadlines
Make sure you do not take on too many responsibilities for yourself. This is probably our biggest area for improvement from what we experienced last semester. Once you do delegate and assign tasks, set deadlines and follow up with each team member in order to ensure the tasks are getting done timely and correctly.

5. Create a Method for Monitoring Progress
Project Mangers are responsible for keeping everyone involved up-to-date. Scheduling regular meetings is one way to accomplish this.

6. Make Sure all Information is Being Documented
In order to make sure everyone is clear about a project’s goals, budget, time frame and any other information, everything must be documented. Documentation is essential for a project’s success in the present and the future.

]]> Budgetball: An Eye-Opening Experience http://vusife.org/blog/2009/12/11/budgetball-an-eye-opening-experience http://vusife.org/blog/2009/12/11/budgetball-an-eye-opening-experience Fri, 11 Dec 2009 07:01:00 +0000 Amanda Pinedo http://vusife.org/blog/2009/12/11/budgetball-an-eye-opening-experience Budgetball events that were led and organized by our Financial Literacy Project Manager, Toby Labanow. Budgetball is an athletic game that educates how to budget one’s money [...]]]> Budgetball events that were led and organized by our Financial Literacy Project Manager, Toby Labanow. Budgetball is an athletic game that educates how to budget one’s money effectively, using interactive methods. However, I did not know what an impact this game would have on a group of at-risk youths as well as myself.

Two nights this past semester, five to six members of our SIFE team met with a group of kids from a community development organization called MIKA with hopes of giving them an in depth look into financial concepts.


MIKA employs a number of programs to help families in need in the local community. One of their most remarkable ways to influence the community is an after school program that meets five times a week to teach young children in Costa Mesa a variety of topics while their parents work. Our SIFE team had the pleasure of meeting with a group of these kids and we were pleasantly surprised at not only how receptive they were to learn from us, but also how we learned valuable lessons from them. I immediately got to know a group of young girls who were so excited and enthusiastic each of the two nights. Some of the girls did not even speak English, so one of the girls volunteered to translate for me. I was known as the “Hannah Montana” girl and the second night we met with them, the girls ran up to me embracing me with hugs. Playing with those girls and getting to know them was an impacting experience that I was not expecting at all. I learned about their families, their schools, their hobbies, their homes, and the things that excited them most in life. At the end of the second night, one of the young girls came up to me and asked if she could have my phone number so that she could stay in touch with me. She was sad that the night was over and wanted to hang out again.

It was at this moment that I realized what SIFE was all about. I looked those girls in the eyes and knew that they had been impacted from this experience. We did not just teach them how to budget their money, but we had taken the time to get to know them and build relationships that they will never forget. I learned that night that this experience was the reason I joined SIFE. The business aspect of SIFE will always be present, but it is the relationship and eye-opening experiences with our community that is going to make the difference in lives everywhere.

]]> Jump on Board with SIFE http://vusife.org/blog/2009/12/07/jump-on-board-with-sife http://vusife.org/blog/2009/12/07/jump-on-board-with-sife Mon, 07 Dec 2009 16:20:00 +0000 Brennan LaMar http://vusife.org/blog/2009/12/07/jump-on-board-with-sife Director of Recruiting and Training, it has been amazing to see students step out to further their future by getting involved. Second, if you think the first semester was great, then you are [...]]]> Director of Recruiting and Training, it has been amazing to see students step out to further their future by getting involved. Second, if you think the first semester was great, then you are in for a major surprise, as we are just getting the ball rolling! If you have not had an opportunity to get involved just yet, don’t worry, because we have so many more events right around the corner.

As your SIFE Leadership Team, we are going to hit the ground running next semester, for which we will need your help! We have some huge events coming up, such as Green Up Your Dorm and the Environmental Sustainability Conference. This means a couple of things: you’ll have an opportunity to get involved and more importantly, you will have an opportunity to network with some big name business owners and representatives. It truly is a win-win situation, so use every opportunity you have to get your name out there. Come to the events, help out, shake a few hands, meet new people and who knows? You might find yourself one step closer to that internship you have always wanted!

If you have not joined the SIFE team and want to get involved, you’re just one click away and it will take 10 minutes of your time. All you need to do is click Join and fill out the application. Don’t sit back any longer waiting for opportunities to come to you. Jump on board!

]]> Being in SIFE? Priceless... http://vusife.org/blog/2009/12/05/being-in-sife-priceless http://vusife.org/blog/2009/12/05/being-in-sife-priceless Sat, 05 Dec 2009 18:17:00 +0000 Andrew Ramirez http://vusife.org/blog/2009/12/05/being-in-sife-priceless
As a commuter, it can be difficult to make lasting relationships on campus. Instead of heading over to "the caf" before or after class with other students, I usually head home, or off to work. I played for the Vanguard baseball team up until last fall, and even then it was difficult to form relationships. When I was playing baseball, I never really had the time to participate in extra-curricular activities, such as joining a club or going to student life events. It wasn't until this year that I decided I would get involved by joining SIFE. I can honestly say, SIFE has been the highlight of my college career thus far.


Getting to know each and every team member individually has been such a rewarding experience. Every team member brings their own unique perspective and vision to every meeting and brainstorming session. Outside of class, each individual has their own unique personality and sense of humor, just like the different members in any family. Some are quiet, some are loud, some are sarcastic and some are straight-shooters. We all laugh at inside jokes and pop-culture references that only we understand. Our time spent together has only strengthened our relationships with one another, and has only made us more effective in working as a team. When you foster deep, meaningful relationships with those you work with, it causes you to work harder for your team, because you care about their success as well as yours. I'm proud of the things we've accomplished and the lives we've touched thus far. And sure, I've learned a little bit about business and management and added something to my resume along the way, but without great friends to share in life's experiences, my pursuits would be all in vain.

]]> Youths learn the essentials of finance through Budgetball http://vusife.org/blog/2009/11/25/youths-learn-the-essentials-of-finance-through-budgetball http://vusife.org/blog/2009/11/25/youths-learn-the-essentials-of-finance-through-budgetball Wed, 25 Nov 2009 13:08:00 +0000 Toby Labanow http://vusife.org/blog/2009/11/25/youths-learn-the-essentials-of-finance-through-budgetball
This quote comes from Joey, a 12 year old boy who attends an after-school program called MIKA. He, along with 20 other at-risk youths from MIKA, attended a game of
This quote comes from Joey, a 12 year old boy who attends an after-school program called MIKA. He, along with 20 other at-risk youths from MIKA, attended a game of Budgetball, put on by Vanguard’s SIFE team.

Before playing Budgetball, these kids had to learn the basics of budgeting by participating in a financial lesson. This tutorial taught the children about what fiscal choices they will need to make when they are older and have a monthly income. For example, the kids were given 5 different choices of housing situations, from living with their parents for free to renting a house on the beach, the most expensive option. Thanks to some guidance from SIFE volunteers, every youth was able to effectively budget their money, with money left over to save in a bank account.


This training led to playing Budgetball, where students not only had to run and pass a volleyball down a field to score points, but also spend their Budgetbucks effectively. The two teams were very evenly matched, and it was evident that the winner would be determined by how well the teams used their combination of Sacrifices and Power-ups. In the end, thanks to one team taking on some difficult Sacrifices, they were able to pull out a win. In exit interviews with the kids, many said that after playing the game, they were more aware of the money they spend and would aim to save their finances better in the future. In the spirit of Thanksgiving, we are very thankful for this opportunity to serve and for an organization like SIFE to inspire lives through the positive power of business.

]]> Making Connections at Networking Night http://vusife.org/blog/2009/11/19/making-connections-at-networking-night http://vusife.org/blog/2009/11/19/making-connections-at-networking-night Thu, 19 Nov 2009 21:49:00 +0000 Toby Labanow http://vusife.org/blog/2009/11/19/making-connections-at-networking-night Success Skills Project Manager Success Skills Project Manager Heather Hernandez, brought a variety of people from different walks of life together to learn about an extremely important aspect of business: networking. Steve VerBerg from Dale Carnegie of Orange County gave a dynamic message as to how to make good first impressions and present oneself appropriately to potential employers. Attendees were then able to practice and hone their networking skills by participating in table discussions, led by several table facilitators. The feedback received was overwhelmingly positive, with many of the participants leaving with the necessary skills to acquire the job they want or rise up in their current position.

SIFE would like to thank Steve VerBerg, as well as all the table facilitators who so graciously took the time to prepare for and be present at this event. Thank you to all our SIFE members, taking time from their schedules to make this night a success. Most of all, we would like to extend a thank you to everyone who attended, hoping that they will use the knowledge and skills learned from this night to increase the quality of their work life.

]]> Perhaps you've noticed some changes... http://vusife.org/blog/2009/11/10/perhaps-youve-noticed-some-changes http://vusife.org/blog/2009/11/10/perhaps-youve-noticed-some-changes Tue, 10 Nov 2009 22:01:00 +0000 Toby Labanow http://vusife.org/blog/2009/11/10/perhaps-youve-noticed-some-changes SnapPages.com, we were able to easily [...]]]> SnapPages.com, we were able to easily construct a design totally different from our previous look. Though SnapPages was a simple tool to use, an enormous amount of work was devoted to making this site look crisp and clean. For that, we thank Director of Public Relations Amanda Pinedo, who took the lead on this project and dedicated many long hours to making sure the site was beautifully redesigned. We are proud to say her hard work has definitely paid off!

As you can see, we’ve added a blog to our site, so you can easily keep up with what is going on in SIFE. For quick updates, be sure to check out our Latest Happenings page. We’ve also made it simpler to find out more information about our various projects in their respective areas. Our calendar of events allows you to see how SIFE is affecting the community in the upcoming months (Networking Night is coming soon!). We’ve also got some great photos from previous events that will let you experience firsthand what SIFE is all about.

Thanks for visiting our redesigned site. We hope it will give you a taste of the substantial change SIFE is making in the community. Feel free to contact us with any comments or suggestions.



]]> It's beginning to look a lot like... competition time http://vusife.org/blog/2009/11/05/its-beginning-to-look-a-lot-like-competition-time http://vusife.org/blog/2009/11/05/its-beginning-to-look-a-lot-like-competition-time Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:48:00 +0000 Prof. Stachowiak http://vusife.org/blog/2009/11/05/its-beginning-to-look-a-lot-like-competition-time how to deliver group presentations, with the solid advice about having the [...]]]>
It feels like we just wrapped up the Vanguard SIFE competition team for 2009 and it is already time to start thinking about our 2010 team. I saw an article today on how to deliver group presentations, with the solid advice about having the ingredients of clarity, control, and commitment. Last year's team definitely had those three components and Dave and I are both looking forward to what is in store this year.

Are you interested in being a part of the 2009-2010 Vanguard SIFE competition team? Here are some of the roles we'll be seeking starting in January, 2010:

  • Presenters (typically 4-6 people)
  • Onsite audio visual support (2 people)
  • Writers (2 people)
  • Video editor (1 person)
  • Designers (1-2 people)

Are you thinking about auditioning for this year's presentation team? We'll be looking for individuals who meet the following criteria:

  • Dynamic presentation style
  • Involved with at least two or three SIFE projects during the 2009-2010 SIFE year
  • Adds diversity to our team (in terms of presentation style, thinking processes, gender and ethnicity)
  • Commitment to the rehearsal schedule (see calendar)
Auditions are January 25, 2010 at 6:00 pm. Contact us to let us know of your interest in being a part of the competition team (either as a behind-the-scenes contributor or as a presenter).

]]> Budgetball comes to MIKA! http://vusife.org/blog/2009/11/04/budgetball-comes-to-mika http://vusife.org/blog/2009/11/04/budgetball-comes-to-mika Wed, 04 Nov 2009 09:22:00 +0000 Toby Labanow http://vusife.org/blog/2009/11/04/budgetball-comes-to-mika Budgetball. Developed by several non-profit organizations, this game teaches personal budgeting techniques and about the always growing national debt. SIFE is pleased to [...]]]> Budgetball. Developed by several non-profit organizations, this game teaches personal budgeting techniques and about the always growing national debt. SIFE is pleased to announce that they will be playing Budgetball with at-risk youths from MIKA Community Development Corporation, a neighborhood and youth development center based in Costa Mesa.

In addition to playing Budgetball with these students, SIFE is taking the extra step to spend time educating the kids about fiscal responsibility. In order to help these students with little or no previous knowledge in budgeting understand this concept easier, SIFE has created an activity where the youth are faced with real world situations about how to spend their money. These kids will walk around to different stations, picking the life they want to make for themselves. For example, at the transportation station, they will get to choose between several options of mobility, from walking, the free option, to leasing a Cadillac, the most expensive option. However, the youth must stay within their budget, determined by the occupation given to them. SIFE wants to let students know some of the choices they will encounter in the real world, but encourage them to make fiscally responsible decisions.

Once the students become a little more familiar with budgeting concepts, SIFE will be playing Budgetball with 30-35 of MIKA’s at-risk youths. We aim to see an increase in changed behavior through interviews with students after playing the game. We hope that it will be a positive learning experience not only for the kids at MIKA, but for our SIFE volunteers as well. Go Budgetball!



]]> Eating Right When Money's Tight is a Success http://vusife.org/blog/2009/10/17/eating-right-when-moneys-tight-is-a-success http://vusife.org/blog/2009/10/17/eating-right-when-moneys-tight-is-a-success Sat, 17 Oct 2009 13:07:00 +0000 http://vusife.org/blog/2009/10/17/eating-right-when-moneys-tight-is-a-success
The participants demonstrated their learning about financial literacy [...]]]>
The participants demonstrated their learning about financial literacy through a clicker pre and post test and also in preparing a healthy meal together done on a budget.



Thanks also to the entire SIFE team who was there to serve at this event. A crew arrived early to prepare the meal and made sure the entire room was well fed.



Toby indicated that Megan Allee was a special help in planning this event. Megan connected us with our hosts, St. Andrew's Church, and also was instrumental in ensuring that things went according to plan. When they didn't, she was always quick to jump in to help.



Courtney was another big help, as she taught us all how to prepare the authentic Greek meal. We had a great time learning under Courtney's leadership and appreciate that after a week where she was up at 3:45 am a couple of days for her new internship, she still was here to serve (literally and figuratively).



Thanks again to the speakers: Bonni Stachowiak, Sandie Morgan, and Jeremy Franz, as well as to the whole group of SIFE members who helped make this event a success.

]]> Eating Right When Money's Tight Event http://vusife.org/blog/2009/10/13/eating-right-when-moneys-tight-event http://vusife.org/blog/2009/10/13/eating-right-when-moneys-tight-event Tue, 13 Oct 2009 13:58:00 +0000 Toby http://vusife.org/blog/2009/10/13/eating-right-when-moneys-tight-event
It’s called Eating Right [...]]]>
It’s called Eating Right when Money’s Tight. Some of you may remember this as the Feed Your Family / Stretch Your Wallet dinner for single parents and families. This year, we’re giving the event a new name and hope to influence single parents to spend their money wiser. Once again, we will have the fabulous Sandie Morgan speaking and cooking about healthy ways to eat on a budget. There will also be games, prizes, and most importantly, this event is free! Here are some ways you can get involved in this fun night:

  • Help at the event. There will be all sorts of opportunities to serve that night, including assistance with cooking, child care, registration, greeting, etc.
  • Pass the information along to groups you belong to (churches, non-profits, Bible studies, book groups, etc.) or people in your contacts in your address book (just think of five people who you think might enjoy something like this and hit forward-send). Word of mouth is a powerful advertising tool.
  • Provide a donation. Do you have random grocery store gift cards or cooking items that are unused and you’ll never use? Or maybe you know someone who owns healthy restaurants that would give away a gift card for free? Donate it for the raffle that night or provide some money toward the meal we’ll be sharing. Vanguard can provide a Tax-ID number for charitable donations from businesses.
  • Pray for the student leaders and for the event to be a success. We define success as increased financial literacy and being stewards of God’s gifts, as well as us having a great time together and learning some great new cooking skills.
  • Show up. Want to come and enjoy a delicious, healthy, and free meal and have the opportunity to play games and win prizes? We’d love to have you attend!

By this point, you’re probably asking when and where it is and how to sign up. Prepare to have all your questions answered:

Friday, October 16
6:30 – 8:30 pm
St. Andrews Presbyterian Church (600 St. Andrews Road, Newport Beach, CA 92663)



Register @ www.vusife.org
(click Eating Right When Money’s Tight link to learn more and then choose register)

Volunteers for the night, please arrive around 5:30 pm to assist with set up.

Any questions can be directed towards our Financial Literacy Project Manager:

Toby Labanow

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