b'IMPACT: KEEPING THE STORYNext Generation Council: Thom Melcher Its easy to make excusesI dont have time, I dont have experience, I dont have resources and so on. But the truth is we all have skills, talent and the capacity to make a difference. Thom MelcherChair, Next Generation CouncilThough he did not know about USC Shoah Foundationto heart: The words Align, Extend and Amplify represent until attending an Ambassadors for Humanity Galaour focus: our efforts must Align with the priorities years ago, current Next Generation Council (NGC) Co- of the Board of Councilors and staff; our words and Chair Thom Melcher was drawn to the Institutes workactions should Amplify the message and mission of the upon learning of its mission at the timeto end hatred,foundation; and our time, talents and treasure should be bigotry and intolerance. Calling the Institutes approachused to Extend the reach and impact of our collective to education through testimony the best way to createefforts.lasting change, Melcher relished the chance to be activeThrough his participation, Melcher serves as an in the fight against hatred. example for others who may feel that they do not have When the opportunity presented itself to take on athe capability to participate. Its easy to make excuses leadership role as NGC Co-Chair, Melcher was humbled I dont have time, I dont have experience, I dont have and inspired, yet still had doubts. Relative to the amazingresources and so on, he said. But the truth is we all have people on the NGC, Im not a subject matter expert, heskills, talent and the capacity to make a difference. By said. Im not the son or grandson of a Holocaust survivor,committing to real change, Melcher brings energy and nor am I Jewish. Ultimately, his desire to effect changefocus to his role and serves as an example that encourages led to his accepting the role, giving him an importantothers to act with urgency, thoughtfulness and purpose.voice in the Institutes evolved mission to developFor his part, Melcher is quick to point out that the empathy, understanding and respect, a mission that growseffort he has put in to the Institute has been returned in more relevant each day.kind: While I hope I have had a meaningful impact on the Melcher has taken the goals of the Next GenerationNGC, I am confident it pales in comparison to the impact Council, a key advisory group for USC Shoah Foundation,the NGC and USC Shoah Foundation has had on me.12 2020 ANNUAL REPORT'