Hi and thanks for visiting my fund-raising web page. I'd really appreciate your support in something I feel very strongly about.

Many teens in under-served and under-resourced neighborhoods in the U.S. struggle with a sense of disenfranchisement and hopelessness. They need someone to listen to their concerns and channel their energies in the direction of empowerment and change. All too often, young people have neither the experience nor the skills to engage the social systems, including government, that impact their lives on a daily basis, therefore they hold back from civic engagement. Without invested and active local leadership - including young people - communities cannot become safe, nurturing places in which to raise healthy, independent children who will become the next generation of leaders.

I have chosen to become active and invested in local leadership through World Vision's Youth Empowerment Project (YEP). This is a 20-week program that culminates in a 4-day Youth Empowerment Summit, July 14-18, 2008 in Washington, D.C. Participants hear from speakers and workshop leaders about issues related to poverty, youth violence, and the role of young people in civic participation. One day is devoted to visiting the Capitol to discuss their specific concerns with their congressional representatives. In 2007, 28 senators and congressional representatives were visited by YEP delegates (participants like me), including Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama.

My responsibility to attend the Summit is $200. A donation of any amount will help support me. Any funds raised over the $200 will support the Youth Empowerment Project.

Children, families, and communities in the U.S. will be changed and futures brightened through your gift! Would you consider supporting me? Donating through this site is simple, safe, and totally secure.

Please give generously. And thank you for caring.

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