Cynthia Germanotta

“I spent over 25 years in corporate America.”

“When I was growing up, times were different. The way that we would deal with things is what I learned, and that's what I resorted to... I relied on getting a grip. I relied on the generational grit of just sucking it up and getting on with it.”

“A lot of people talk about their work life, and then their family life, and I don't think it's wise to separate them. It's important to be your authentic self in both of those environments.”

“Kids live online, but love and support don't.”

“People have different ways of telling letting you know they need help.”

“Generally, I was pretty independent and driven myself. We're like that as a family. Our mentality is to be strong.”

“We're already using digital tools to teach phonics and arithmetic. Let's use them to teach kids how to manage their emotions and relate more effectively to those around them.”

“I think the power of storytelling is so important. It helps when people realize they're not alone.”

“Our seemingly small acts of kindness have the power to impact every measure of our lives and help our communities thrive.”

“While we rightly stress common core subjects such as science, math, and reading in our education system, these tools for emotional literacy are equally impactful on a young person's long-term well-being and success.”

“We just set an example as parents by giving back.”

“I am inspired by the resilience and optimism that young people are showing, despite the challenges they face.”

“The Internet is an incredibly powerful tool that has transformed the global economy and revolutionized how millions communicate, collaborate, and express themselves.”

“As a family, we always emphasized giving back to society and instilled that value in our children.”

“Always remember, especially in the face of struggle, that you matter, you are loved.”

“What are kids learning through osmosis when our representatives flaunt the very rules of behavior that we teach our sons and daughters to uphold? How can we teach them to be accepting and respectful of others when the role models they see on TV refuse to show even a modicum of civility?”

“I always start my day with two things that really ground me. One is a book of daily inspirational readings called 'The Book of Awakening.' Basically, it talks about having the life you want and being present in the life you have. I also write three things I'm grateful for in a gratitude journal.”

“Our goal is to do our part to help make the world a 'kinder & braver' place by empowering and inspiring youth around the country, and hopefully others who want to stand up for kindness, acceptance and love.”

“Youth are like anyone else - they don't want to open up or seek support if they feel like they might be judged.”

“When my daughter Stefani was in school, she was undeniably unique. But unique can be a difficult thing to be for a kid, and her peers didn't always appreciate those things that made her different.”