A Virginia Beach evening with an 'Apprentice' winner

VIRGINIA BEACH

When Kendra Todd heard the date that Operation Blessing International wanted her to speak in Virginia Beach, she knew it was meant to be.

"I was already flying in the day before for a family event," said Todd, who lives in Seattle but went to high school in Virginia Beach. "This was God giving me an assignment - loud and clear."

Her most publicized assignment was as a contestant and winner of the television show, "The Apprentice," in 2005.

At 7 p.m. Feb. 25, Todd will share how to "live your passion, share your prosperity" at the Cavalier Golf & Yacht Club.

Tickets cost $35 and include dinner. All proceeds benefit Operation Blessing International.

Kristin Vischer, Operation Blessing International manager for marketing and donor events, said they are thrilled to have Todd come speak what's on her heart.

"I'll talk about what a rich life is," Todd said. "It has less to do with money. Success is how you live your life."

During the evening, Todd will share the importance of taking risks and the benefits of sharing God-given success and prosperity with others.

"For me, it's God and family first and business second," said Todd.

Attendees will learn new attitudes about money, uncover new passions and gain a broader perspective of how Operation Blessing International is addressing humanitarian needs in the United States and worldwide, Todd said.

A 1996 graduate of First Colonial, Todd explained her excitement when she heard the words, "Kendra, you're hired!" from Donald Trump, host of "The Apprentice."

"It radically changed my life across the board," said Todd, who earned a degree in linguistics from the University of Florida in 2000. "Working for Donald Trump was an experience unlike any other. He taught me how to create the brand called you."

Since then, Todd, 31, has become the author of the best-seller, "Risk and Grow Rich," and been a featured guest on the "Today" show and "Live! With Regis and Kelly." She was a money expert for "The Montel Williams Show" and is host of HGTV's "My House is Worth What?"

As a real estate entrepreneur, Todd is developing a new real estate business, The Kendra Todd Group. Her latest passion can be found online at www.growrichgodsway.com.

"This is especially personal to me," said Todd, who spent time in Haiti last year. "I want to share my story and testimony."

Sandra J. Pennecke, Pennecke@cox.net