A Request For Assistance…

I’m usually not one to beg… but here’s the situation.  My kids attend an inner-city middle school in Louisville Kentucky…  Without getting into all the “magnet school” stuff and how they integrate kids of all races and backgrounds…I will say it’s a great school, and 32 countries are represented there.  However it’s situated right smack dab in the middle of subsidized housing.  These kids in the area that attend are blessed to be able to attend such a great public school.  However, they are of limited means, and rely on “scholarships” to attend many events, trips etc…  The 8th grade class has several students that may not be able to attend their graduation class’ Washington DC trip this year…  The economy is hurting many, and causing many that usually give freely to be more conservative naturally with their money… here’s the email I just got from their principal:

Dear Parents,

I am writing to appeal for your help and generosity, if you are so inclined, to support our annual 8th grade trip to Washington D.C.  At this time, twelve students have been selected to attend the trip on scholarship this spring.  These students wrote an essay demonstrating why they deserve to go on the trip.  They also must participate in fundraising efforts and make some financial contribution of their own.  The students selected are very deserving and are definitely looking forward to this opportunity, which could be once-in-a-lifetime.

Fundraising efforts have not been as lucrative as expected, possibly due to the downturn in the economy and other factors.  At this time, we are not able to fulfill the entire financial commitment for all twelve students to go on the trip.  Our travel agent is exploring ways to reduce our cost, but not reduce the quality of the trip by eliminating anything that is already planned.  I will not inundate your inbox with requests to help, and I almost hesitate to appeal for additional generosity so soon after a mind-blowing display of giving at the holiday season.  However, without some additional financial support, we will be in the unfortunate situation of breaking the news to some of the students that they won’t be able to go.

If you are willing to give a tax deductible donation of $5 or $10 to sponsor our scholarship recipients, we would be most grateful.  You can drop off donations in the main office and we will provide you with a contribution letter for tax purposes.  If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at chris.burba@jefferson.kyschools.us or at 485-8299.

Sincerely,

Chris Burba, Principal

Here’s what I’ll do… If you’ll visit the “get gear” positive economic news store at Cafe Press by clicking on that tab at the top of the page, I will donate 100% of any profits towards helping these kids go on their trip.  This will probably be the only time most of them will see outside the city of Lousville.  You get something, they get something, it’s a win-win…

That’s my quest… I just felt an urge… So I’m going with the flow.  If you feel compelled to buy something, thank you.

Barry