"You did a FANTASTIC job this morning. I have read your book, I have seen the movie, and I just love your story. It is so powerful. In reality though, when you choose a speaker, you never really know if he/she will be as good as you hope. You just have to go with your gut and trust that someone with such a wonderful uplifting story will be able to tell it in a way that captivates a crowd. And that you did! I don't think there was a dry eye in the place. We strive to make a difference for the women and girls in our community—to give hope where there is none, to provide leadership and guidance to those in need, and to change lives. You inspired folks to give back, to join us, to make that difference you spoke of so well. We raised more money this morning than ever before. Thank you for helping us do that; but, more importantly, thank you for sharing yourself with kids and families who have never felt such love and care. Always remember, YOU MATTER." -Orange County United Way
"Stacey Bess captivated a group of close to 400 women at our event for Nurture Home, a homeless shelter. The event, called Hearts for Hope and Homes, was an idea to inform our audience of the needs of homeless mothers and their children as well as inform our community of the mission of Nurture Home. The experience of working with APB and Stacey was smooth and not at all intimidating as this was our first event of this type. Thank you for your role in our successful event!" -Mental Health America of Aiken County
"During Stacey’s visit to Seton Hill University in Greensburg, Pennsylvania, in April to celebrate the 2016 Student Affiliate Dinner for Month of the Young Child, she shared the gifts of teaching with our education students including compassion, trust, mentorship and leadership, importance of service, and conquering diversity. Students attending from Seton Hill University; St. Vincent College; University of Pittsburgh, Greensburg; Carlow University; and Westmoreland County Community College; Pittsburgh Association for the Education of Young Children (PAEYC) members and community members were inspired by her message and her dedication to the profession of teaching. Most of all, Stacey shared how important it is to love our children from the top to the bottom. We are not just teachers to our students; we are so much more!" -Dr. Kathleen I. Harris, Associate Professor, Early Childhood Education, Seton Hill University