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At first, I thought I had been invited just to contribute my time, energy and resources to the Shortstack Girls. It took just a few minutes until there was the sweet payback. Being as accepted, embraced and so deeply appreciated sure fuels the Shortstack fire in my heart…The loving guidance these girls get helps to set them on their way toward happiness…..That they have each other to share the love with is a big reason they keep on going……When I told my dear old friend Tommy Hilfiger about my experience with Shortstack, it took him a nano second to sign on with his support. The magic shared among the Shortstack girls runs pervassivly throughout all of the things that Windows of Opportunity does to help our kids make our world brighter…..The expression “The fish stinks from the head down” sure does apply to how Magical Hal Eisenberg is blessed and blesses everyone all around him….This fish sure smells so good!!!!

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“I cannot begin to tell you how happy we were with the Love in Action elective. You truly made a difference and hope that you will be able to continue with us.”

“Anyone who comes to The Inner You group can see they are like one big family, which is very different than a lot of other groups. They have grown into this big friendly unit, making anyone feel welcomed. They are so happy to be there, and hate when they have to miss a session, because for many people this is the only place they feel safe and can be themselves without being judged. From the leaders who once suffered from the same issues, or are still suffering, to the individual members of the group, they have all grown in their own ways, helping each other and benefiting one another.”

“half full story of the day: my day with hal. Energetic. Passionate. Resilient. Patient. Determined. Creative. Friend. Listener. Giver. Selfless. Happy. Compassionate. Empathetic. Driven. Forgiving. Understanding. Connector. Trustworthy. Committed. Reliable. Caring. Tireless. Today, it’s about Hal Eisenberg … I couldn’t be happier that we have this opportunity to work together.”

“I don’t know if you know this, but before I came to your program I was popping pills left and right to escape from all the pain that life has in store for me. When I got more involved you made me realize that I don’t need drugs to help me escape from reality because just letting it all out to your trusted staff is a much better high. I can’t thank you all enough for being there when I need it the most.”

“Being a part of WOO is like having a second family. I have never been more supported by people in my life. Not only has WOO given me friends for life, it’s helped raise my self-confidence when I thought it never could be raised. WOO has given me the personal and people skills to be able to overcome my fear of public speaking and interactions with others. I fully and truly believe as a Junior in college right now, that I would not be where I am if I was not a part of WOO.”

“Webster’s Dictionary states the following: (a) Window: A means of entrance or access. (b) Opportunity: A favorable juncture of circumstances. A good chance for advancement or progress. I find it hard to imagine that two simple words from the English language, once conjoined, could be more powerful and important in our daily lives. One only has to think of what wonders humanity could achieve, if only, each one of us, could be that Window and provide some Opportunity for our fellow man. I say “Bravo” to all the unsung heroes associated with ‘The Barbara Harmon Institute’ and ‘Windows of Opportunity’ for their tireless work, selfless acts and many contributions in the pursuit of creating a better life for all.”

“I never imagined 6 years ago that my dreams would come true. I set out to create Shortstack to begin changing the standards, to begin changing the way we look at the modeling industry, as well as the way we do HIV education amongst my peers. We have accomplished so much, yet I know this is only the beginning. From newspaper interviews to an appearance on Fox 5, to the amazing girls in my program, and much more, I am truly blessed. I am honored to be at the heartbeat of this organization.”

“Here at WOO we look to see the light in others, to work for and with all who wish to be a part of a community which not only helps but grows to guide, respect, and learn from each other.”

“Finally, an organization that celebrates our youths’ commitment to go far and beyond preconceived expectations and set the bar high to undoubtedly lead the movement of progressive thinkers of the 21st century.”

“Shortstack is part of the synergy that helps teens draw connections between all aspects of their lives and the communities in which they live as they develop essential skills. The youth influence the programs as well, using their own knowledge to develop new practices and fine-tune established ones in collaboration with others.”

“Getting ready for my last shortstack rehearsal.. These 8 months have been amazing with all of my shortstack sisters. and as we have worked so hard lets us truly enjoy this last rehearsal and be confident that we will all kick some serious butt down that runway on Thursday!” – Frannelys Frias, 8th Season Shortstack Model “My family and I wanted to thank you Tracy, Olivia, Hal and the rest of the Shortstack volunteers for putting on a tremendous fashion show and giving our petites a chance to walk on the runway and most of all, believe in themselves. ..This is an amazing empowerment program.”

You have been of great assistance to our school community. I do hope that this economic crisis that we are all in will soon pass. Good luck and thank you again for all that you do and continue to do for the betterment of OUR world.

Woo has given me something to believe in and a reason to move forward in life. I am truly blessed to be part of such an amazing organization!

Since I have been in your leadership program the past 2 years, I feel like I have changed tremendously. I talk a lot more than I did the first 3 years of high school and this class has helped me to overcome numerous obstacles in life. From lessons to sessions it has helped me to gain knowledge and wisdom that I never would have acquired if it wasn’t for you.

I think it was a great idea to have a fashion show with shorter girls. How often we let others determine our self worth; it was great thinking about the auditions where it wasn’t the star quality, but hard work that determined the participants. From age 13 to 25, kids have a very rough time; hormones, peer pressure, experimenting, relationships, parents and family pressures, I don’t know how we survived???

Being able to sit in a room full of peers and speak freely without being judged is something I never got to experience until I came to your program. Outside the four walls of your program exists a hostility that disappears once we step through your door.

I am now in Queens College majoring in sociology & psychology — and I chose my major by thinking of you and everything you taught me in your class from the quotes to helping each other.

Hal Eisenberg’s greatest talent?” I answered: “talented in so many ways… damn good drummer, organizer, mover and shaker, song writer, world changing unstoppable machine of a man who will change the stars if he’s determined to do so.

Being a part of WOO has unlocked opportunities and resources that I did not know even existed in my community.

WOO is a place where all windows are open for you to possibly climb through and they give you the help to do so.

WOO gives me a chance to put some love back into the world through music. It’s a wonderful feeling doing good and having your friends involved in it too.

Being a part of WOO did not only educate me about the importance of support and prevention, but it has also shown me personally how to deal with my teen issues and how to teach other teens how they can overcome their own.

I became a new person by taking part in all of the WOO workshops this year. It opened my eyes and taught me how serious these situations were. I hope you can come to my high school and speak your words of change.

Thank you for everything. I like all of the workshops but my favorite was stereotypes. I learned that you can be yourself no matter what you do or what people say. Thank you for building up my confidence and for believing in myself.

Windows of Opportunity will touch a lot of lives at a critical time in these kids life. It is a very strong force for self esteem and leadership of the next group of young adults. All your sacrifice and hard work will bear fruit for many years to come. I know you receive by giving, you are blessed.

The facts about bullying and cyber bullying really amazed me.

I’ve never had this much fun while learning before.

I learned a lot from you guys but the thing I loved the most was when Olivia taught us about HIV. She taught me how to be careful in the future. She probably saved my life and many others.

Hal, it was a real pleasure to work with you!!

The presentation was very fun and interactive!

WOO is a family that helps and won’t desert you… it changes lives of others and it will help you move forward

The main workshops I liked were bullying, anger management, HIV and respecting your body. Thank you for helping me learn to somewhat control my anger.

You guys are great. You guys broke everything down so that I could understand. Thank you for answering all of my questions.

Thank you to WOO for running our after school program! I loved the quotes and workshops

I liked learning about bullying. It helped me a lot with the problems I was having at school.

I like that your workshops are very real and truthful. They helped me express feelings I do not normally get to express.

Great show! Thanks for helping us with the students, preparing and organizing. They definitely could not have done it without your help!

My favorite workshop this year was HIV 101. It was the most memorable because I could not believe that someone a few years older than me could know all that information. I want to join your leadership program!

Your class makes people more open minded, less ignorant and more aware. Your class taught me how to deal with my problems better. You made me realize things about myself and what I want to be.

You really don’t understand how grateful I am for your program. I have truly gained so much from becoming involved with Windows. Not only have I been able to help others, but I have been able to help myself. Thank you so much for absolutely everything.

Your workshop was voted most popular at our conference this weekend! Thank you!

I just wanted to thank you for putting on the benefit for my son. Everyone was so kind and supportive. I will never forget it. God Bless.

…tonight I got the “model of the year” award which was something I was not expecting at all. Nobody truly understands how much Shortstack means to me. When I first started this program, I was going through a major depression when I literally felt all alone, I did not feel good about myself, some family & friends were concerned, I started to give up on myself and my academics; I really just stopped caring about everything and completely gave up. Until one day I walked away from school I never usually walked and as I’m waiting to cross the street, I see a flyer asking if I wanted to become a model. I immediately took down all the info and thought of this as a second chance at doing something I love since I gave up on it in the past. The rest was history. We talked about our problems, we were really taught so much about self love & most importantly whatever I was going through, I realized I literally was not alone, it was either someone was going through it with me at the same time or can share a similar story. It’s not all about modeling with Shortstack, it is soooo much more than that; it was my therapy & my escape. I met amazing girls that I not only modeled with but bonded with; these girls are my sisters, they are my family; everyone in Shortstack that I’ve met within these two years are my family. Every time I think about this program and how far I’ve come and what it has done to & for me, I get emotional, I do cry because I remember that dark time and how horrendous I felt about life and myself. I thank the universe for getting me to that better place & walking that way from school making me late for work I’m not one to share my feelings like this nor get emotional in front of people but these girls, and my directors & all of team Shortstack are special kind of people that gets me all mushy inside lol… but without them I honestly would not know how life would have been for me at that time or for me now. I’ve been given great opportunities because of Shortstack as well & for that, I am forever ever ever ever thankful. I love you.

So glad Hal and Windows of Opportunity were able to present again for the 5th year in a row at our New York Cares Leadership Conference at Pace University. Your workshop was overwhelmingly the most enjoyed by students!  Several gave the workshop a “100 out of 5” rating.  The students also had some insightful comments! ”Thanks again!

I loved the discussions. It was very controversial and it allowed us to talk about things we wouldn’t normally talk about with our friends

Spread this program!!

I felt like Hal was really personal and down to earth and I felt like I was able to connect with a lot of people

Although I didn’t agree with some people’s opinions I think it started really good and important conversations.

Very motivational. If I can I would attend this every day like I’m in love with this.

I loved this workshop. May you please email me because I have questions on what programs you offer.

I didn’t talk much but I definitely will come back and maybe open up more. This workshop was the best one of the day.  <3

I love this program and also like the nice people and how they express their feelings. It doesn’t matter if people say sh*t about your appearance you just got to keep your head up stay strong.

Best workshop I’ve ever attended.

Honestly, I loved this workshop.  It helped express my thoughts/views on society.  I <3 Hal.

Such a fun workshop to be in.  I wish I could be here more!  Such inspirational words and just amazing I loved being here.

Love the way Hal and Nina wanted to know our thoughts.

I loved the vibe that almost everyone in here gave me, and I think that if there were programs like this that were mandatory in schools, bullying would end.

It was dope to see other people’s opinions on different situations.

I liked how I could express my ideas freely with such intelligent people along my side because it shows you you aren’t alone!.

This bullying workshop was cool, you got to be yourself.

I have overcome a lot of insecurities through my life and though I’m still working on them, Shortstack has been there through the really bad and the amazing little steps that it took to become who I am today. I am forever grateful and so in love with everyone that surrounds this team because, together we have all overcome a lot.

Shortstack has been a wonderful part of my life and I’m so glad I get to be a part of it all. Watching these amazing models walk that runway puts such a big smile on my face, especially knowing that I help them do it. Each one of our models are truly unique and so beautiful… they don’t even know it but they have slowly helped me with my own confidence as well.

Shortstack has been a wonderful part of my life and I’m so glad I get to be a part of it all. Watching these amazing models walk that runway puts such a big smile on my face, especially knowing that I help them do it. Each one of our models are truly unique and so beautiful… they don’t even know it but they have slowly helped me with my own confidence as well.

Over these past 8 months I have grown a strong bond with each and every one of you girls. Shortstack has helped me so much with everything from my confidence to my shyness to my girlyness. I really see a change in myself. It was a great experience… you girls supported me in everything and I really appreciate that. We killed it in the show! I love all of you girls so much!

This agency is honestly the reason I am strong enough to be myself.

I can’t even begin to describe what a wonderful night I had tonight. I never thought that I would be getting all dolled up to go cover a fashion show, much less the most amazing fashion show ever and meet great people. I want to thank Hal Eisenberg for inviting me to the show and trusting me to take pictures for you (even though some of them were blurry, but most were fab) and for being one of the most amazing, generous, kindhearted people I’ve ever met. I want to thank Tracy Mignone for letting me be part of the amazing family and community of women that is Shortstack. I want to shout out my best friend and Shortstack model Denay for rocking the runway and being the epitome of unlimited. I love you babe♡. More of the modeling industry and more of society should aspire to be like Shortstack, breaking the rules and setting new standards. What this fashion show was indicative of is the power of self-love, of the celebration of all kinds of women, and the power of change.

Things Shortstack has taught me: -To love myself , -Beauty comes in all shapes and sizes, -The true meaning of family., -How to be a bad and fierce bitch…. A couple months ago an “ex” friend of mine commented that ‘models are skinny, honey,’ while trying to knock my self-esteem down; however, that didn’t work. Now, while that would have hurt my feelings in the past, the confidence I walk with now is present in any room I present myself. So, as a statement on behalf of my girls, and Shortstack Modeling Agency, watch us destroy that runway on Saturday. To all the haters, stay in ya slow lane!

Yesterday was one of the best days of my life and being a part of Shortstack has been one of the best experiences of my life and that’s alongside having my children so you know it means A LOT. I was trying to be pretty calm yesterday and I’m glad that I did because I soaked up so many of the priceless moments and now that it’s over everything is hitting me. Looking at the pictures and videos from last night is making my heart beat so fast. I’ve cried, laughed and smiled just by looking at the footage and everyone killleddddd it !! I can’t even believe last night happened. I’m so thankful and so proud of everyone. Before I auditioned for Shortstack I was going through so much and I felt like I was going through it alone until I bonded with all of you. I had just given birth to Londyn and was having major self-esteem issues because of how she changed my body, and to top it all off I had lost one of my best friends of so many years. I had no one that could relate to me and then all of a sudden I was in an auditorium filled with girls that were just like me. We all go through different struggles but last night we weren’t phased by any of it. The love, support and confidence I saw amongst everyone is something I’ll never forget.

Thanks so much for coming – I appreciate it so much and you did a great job! I spoke with the board and we’d love to have you back!

I attended a presentation from Windows of Opportunity tonight and I’m so impressed & thankful that this organization exists 🙂

I attended a presentation from Windows of Opportunity tonight and I’m so impressed & thankful that this organization exists 🙂

Shortstack taught me that confidence is knowing you’re not perfect and learning to love yourself.

Shortstack taught me that confidence is embracing your imperfections and still being your own inspiration.

Shortstack taught me to think about the magnitude of empowerment we can create by using ourselves as platforms to promote confidence amongst women

Shortstack taught me that confidence is loving the skin you’re in and owning it.

Today I took a moment to reflect this past year and the duration of Shortstack’s program… as director of a young women’s empowerment program, one thing that I can say is empowering other women empowers me. Enough of the negativity, the hate, the jealousy, the competing… learn to uplift. What do your actions say about your character? I have been so blessed to have met so many young women and be told how I have impacted their lives in some way. Yet, they have no idea how much they have impacted mine. For a moment I felt like life had hit the pause button on me. But then a door opened that made everything make sense. I was able to devote my time and my heart to a mission. You never know what battle someone is fighting. The satisfaction and happiness I feel knowing I have helped love them self more, see their true beauty or just get through a difficult time is my purpose. I truly believe that. I am so grateful for every young woman who I have met throughout this program, and for the bonds that they have formed amongst each other. You all helped me to learn and to grow in ways that I cannot even begin to explain. Shed light, positivity and good energy wherever you go and that will speak more than your words ever could. Uplifting others will uplift you. Be that woman.

Hal is a true leader and the programs at WOO can and will be ground breaking in youth development. He is an inspiration to others, he was and is a pleasure to work with.

Hal is a master of getting the most out of all his staff and volunteers. His passion and drive is infectious and sets the tone for any program, workshop, or project he is affiliated with. I am proud to have work under him directly and with him on other collaborative projects. A truly giving individual who is committed to serving the youth in all aspects.

When I went to Veritas Academy I was in an elective called Love In Action, which was ran by Windows of Opportunity. I took it freshman and junior year and it has changed my life in a positive way. Before I ever took that class I was not aware of the world and did not have open eyes to the outside world. I didn’t think about poverty or society issues. In this class we did workshops to learn how to be a leader and be a better person in our society. I changed my point of view on the world and I realized to appreciate life and help others. Now I love to help others! I listen to people more than I talk and I’m a very empathetic person. The class has inspired me to handle situations better and make good decisions. If I never have taken Love In Action my life would be so different and I’m so grateful I picked that class because  it has made me a more mature person and made me a better leader. Taking this class has really made me realize that my long term goal isn’t so hard to complete, that I could be happy in my life while also helping others. Now I get to give back by presenting at The Annual Dream Out Loud Conference! Can’t wait!

Thank you for always having something positive to say. Seeing how you all handle your responsibility and more with such professional grace has set the standard by which I will strive for.

Keep saving the world!

I want to congratulate you on realizing your dream. I think that you have a wonderful heart and will see this (WOO) grow into something the community will come to rely on and hold in high regard, for the wonderful work you are doing with our children. I’m proud to know the man at the helm, though I know you had a great deal of help along the way.

WOO gives everyone whom becomes part of the WOO family, inspiration, and the opportunity to inspire others. WOO teaches, and offer the opportunity for young people to become the teachers. WOO celebrates individuality, yet over and over proves, that no matter your age, your strengths, or your weaknesses… when you come together and support one another, there is no limit to what goals can be achieved!

On so many levels I just want you to know HOW AMAZING and SUCCESSFUL last night’s event was! So many people came up to me in the gallery during intermission to say how wonderful and professional the benefit was. No one EVER gets the true impact on what it takes to put a fundraiser like this together; but you, Tracy and the whole crew kept running so smoothly! All the hard work, dedication, sweat and tears of the staff was truly inspirational.

Just a quick thank you for the wonderful program you did last night. The turnout was large and the discussion was incredible. The feedback from the kids and the youth committee was very positive.