Who we are

Take a moment and go back in your mind.  Think about all the conversations you have had with anyone and everyone during the past day or two.  Were any of those conversations meaningful?  Were they benign, casual or boring?  Well, if you are like the rest of us, we can't remember all of our conversations unless they do stand out.  But what if all of them mattered?  What if it was up to us to make sure that we leave with something from each and every one of them?

gitm was born from such a conversation.  Like one of those seemingly less than significant, less than lightening striking talks.  gitm wasn't a burning bush...it was more like holding a match that when struck, felt right, good and powerful.

 We hope you recognize your gitm's too.  And when you do...share.

Who we are:

Kimberly Keenan (left), MSW, LCSW received a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois and is currently an adjunct professor at The University of Illinois.  She is a PhD candidate in Applied Ecopsychology with the University of Portland.  In addition to having maintained a thriving family therapy practice, Kim is a national speaker, educator and freelance writer.  She is currently a clinical social worker with OSF Saint Francis Medical Center working with children and families.

Denise Urycki, R.Ph., received a full athletic scholarship from Drake University and earned a degree in Pharmacy.  She coaches grade school and high school track (ASEP and USATF Level 2 certified) and is locally known for her coaching abilities and sports photography.

We founded gitm or Gifts in the Moment, in 2008. In hopes of stemming the tide of the lack of faith, the sense of helplessness and hopelessness we have seen in so many (particularly youth between 12-18 years of age), gitm’s philosophy is based on the following beliefs:

Each of us was born with unique talents or gifts that we are to learn and teach with.  When we experience gifts in the moment (gitm), we are to use of these gifts for the betterment of others.  Every moment is therefore purposeful.  Every moment is an opportunity to teach others or be blessed by others.  Our duty is to become aware of these moments and give of our gifts unselfishly.

gifts: The awareness of our talents granted at birth is our life's purpose.  Developing our gifts occurs throughout our life's journey.

The Gift: We accept full responsibility for the use of our gifts.  We use our gifts unselfishly to the service of others

Gifts in the Moment: We see every moment and every person as an opportunity to learn or to teach. Each moment is purposeful. We strive to see these moments for their true blessings.

The mission of gitm is to teach the importance of using God’s gifts in our everyday lives. We strive to do so in a Nature-rich environment.  This is the cornerstone of everything we do.  Take a look around and see what we are up to.  Please contact us with any questions or comments.