Engage In Real Life is not just an initiative— it is a community mission. On January 30, LaunchNW and Spokane Public Schools will host a reception to celebrate the progress of EngageIRL and commit to our great work ahead. Keynote speaker Dr. John Gaines will share on the vital role of real-world relationships in youth success, inviting us to consider how our community can better support our young people.
Featuring remarks from
Mayor Lisa Brown
Spokane City Council President Betsy Wilkerson
Superintendent Dr. Adam Swinyard
Engage In Real Life Winterfest is a family-friendly event. The Engage In Real Life Community Reception is intended for adult supporters of the initiative.
Attendees must be 21+ years
Meet Dr. John Gaines
Dr. John “Push” Gaines is a former at-risk kid turned CEO/Founder of nonprofit PUSH for Dreams, a Best-selling author, renowned speaker, leadership consultant, and mentorship advocate. His message of pushing through adversity and defying the odds has transformed classrooms, school districts, and businesses across the nation.
Dr. Gaines has heartfelt enthusiasm for his audience and embraces crucial subject matters with a highly organic, kind-hearted approach fueled by positivity and the intrinsic desire to unite community. Dr. Gaines is celebrated for nurturing youth & professionals through his own trauma, life experience, and unique challenges that ultimately became the driving force behind his mission and genuine desire to elevate and motivate students, teachers, administrators, professionals, and communities. Dr. Gaines was named one of the “Top 10 Most Influential People of 2020” by YAHOO News 2020. Dr. Gaines’ ability to relate to his audiences and help them imagine greater possibilities makes him so unique.
Dr. Gaines earned his nickname “PUSH” because he believes in the power of perseverance and teaches others to “keep pushing” through life’s obstacles to become the best version of themselves.
He has devoted himself to the world community. He has proudly appeared as a guest speaker at universities, corporations, national conferences, nonprofit events, NBA skill camps, school assemblies, and youth camps nationwide. As a graduate of East Central University, where he was named Outstanding Student in Business and won a football championship as captain of the football team, he is the picture of success. With a Master’s degree in Business Leadership and a Doctorate in Business Administration, he demonstrates outstanding dedication and personal achievement.
His greatest joy is being a Husband to Emily and a father to Anorah, Benny, and Jonah.
Presenting Sponsor
