Friends and family,

As most of you know, I am very passionate about celebrating my birthday. Some of you may also know that I am also passionate about supporting youth & education. This year is the second year I plan to combine these two passions of mine with a lofty but doable mission.

In lieu of gifts this year, I would love for you to consider supporting an organization near and dear to my heart. The Hope Academy helps kids break the cycle of poverty by providing 12 years of day-to-day support and stability (starting in middle school through high school, college, and into their careers). This year, we have 6 rising 9th graders who have been admitted to stellar high schools: Lowell (2), Riordon, Lick and Sacred Heart (2).

If we can raise $5,000 together, we will be able to help make high school a reality for these 6 bright students. Gifts are matched 1:1 by Google.org to give you even more bang for your generous buck! I would be so incredibly grateful if you could support with an amount greater than your age by September, 27, 2016.

Thank you again and please reach out if you have any interest in getting involved, on any front!

Thank you all! Laura & The Hope Academy