Hello Everyone,

My friend Gabrielle introduced me to COCI and it is a great organization designed to help children not only in Houston but worldwide. 

This is my way of investing in the future by giving children a solid foundation from which to spring forth and become all they imagine they can be.  In some cases, creating an environment that allows them to BEGIN dreaming beyond their current circumstances. 

So, on April 10th, I will not be swimming 1.2 miles, biking 56 miles, and running 13.1 miles just for myself.  I will be out there with the knowledge that every stroke, every pedal, and every step I take will help make their lives a little easier and their world more hopeful.

I seek to be the change I want to see in this world. 

Together we can make it happen!! : )

Valerie

If you would like to learn more about COCI, please watch their video and check out their website.

Here are examples of the difference that your support of COCI can make for children around the world

• $50 provides daycare support for one child from Kenya's slums for one month
• $100 provides uniforms and equipment for two special needs children for one year in a program bringing Arab and Jewish kids together
• $200 provides 1 High School Student with 2 healthy snacks a day for 1 year in Houston, TX
• $500 provides counseling and transportation of non HIV medications and food staples for one year to one poverty stricken rural family in Romania with at least one HIV+ child
• $1,000 provides support in Kenya for one teacher and one "mama" for one month in a residential and daycare center serving seventy children
• $2,000 provides a driver's salary and fuel for two months to operate the community transport program in Belgrade serving over 60 institutionalized and special needs children for two months

Donating through this website is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to support my fundraising efforts.

Many thanks for your support -- and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to donate.