Youth Renewal Fund’s Post

I'm so happy to announce that the Debate Dreams Foundation (501c3) is officially up and running on debatedreams.com. As the Policy Debate Captain at Westminster, I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact of policy debate on young minds. However, for many aspiring debaters, there's a significant hurdle to overcome. Policy debate is annual and topic-specific, and to be adequately prepared for the ever-changing topic, students must attend policy debate camps. These camps provide students with the research skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the debate season. Unfortunately, the cost of these camps often places them out of reach for underprivileged students. Without this vital preparation, these students start the season at a significant disadvantage, and many inevitably give up on debate, missing out on the lifelong skills and opportunities that policy debate can offer. Our goal is to raise $20,000 in order to level the playing field of debate! You can donate at https://lnkd.in/gjGkKxzM

A holiday update, for any connections that may be interested: Having grown from 20 newly minted high school grads and four communities just two years ago to 300 and 60 communities this past summer, the American Exchange Project is rather convincingly demonstrating that there's hope for depolarizing America, one high school at a time. In any case, it's great for the kids who participate in our exchanges, from Little Rock to Anchorage, Montana to Maine, the Bronx to Kilgore, Texas, as our website (https://lnkd.in/dUVpqcK) and the media coverage there attests, particularly the CBS Sunday Morning segment link and this shorter -- please forgive the industry lingo -- "sizzle reel": https://lnkd.in/e7DsqvVv But to scale AEP, we need to fund vastly more exchanges. Yes, we're in 50+ locations, but as I learned when researching the total to be reached, there are 19,500 incorporated communities in America.   We've gotten help from foundations like the Rockefeller Brothers fund and MacArthur, philanthropists like Mike Milken and Steven Spielberg, but we need way more support. And we need a whole lot more people to know about how we're helping communities send and host. So here's the pitch: that you share this and help us get your community involved. host a luncheon, dinner, cocktail party or other event to which you and we can invite people who might be interested. And/or donate, either by check to AEP, 38 Balcom Road, Sudbury MA 01776, or via our website. Remember, we’re a registered non-profit, so folks can contribute directly from their Required Minimum Distributions, reducing the taxable amount. That's what Jan and I do. For those of you wanting more detail on what we need to sign on a new community:  1. An Exchange Manager--a local educator who can run the program 2. The blessing of the principal to work in the high school 3. A community leader--a connected adult who can help us put together a great itinerary and connect to folks in the community 4. A host family coordinator--a local adult, usually a parent, who can recruit and assist with host families 5. A plan to raise funds in the community to help support the program, if possible The relevant contact: Jessica Golden (jgolden@americanexchangeproject.org) Thank you. Paul

According to expert advisors and academic leaders, successful community college fundraising actions can help boost a school’s appealing qualities, student opportunities, and overall institutional successes. Read the full Community College Review article here ➡ bit.ly/41k1rNI

Key components of the AccessUVA expansion include: 1. Virginia families with an income of $50,000 or less will receive grants and scholarships that equal or exceed tuition, fees, housing and dining. Previously, the maximum family income level for such aid packages was $30,000.  2. Virginia families with an income of $100,000 or less will receive grants and scholarships that equal or exceed tuition and fees. The previous income threshold was $80,000. 3. Virginia families with an income of $150,000 or less will receive at least $2,000 in need-based grants. The new income level is an increase from $125,000. #uva #AccessUVA https://lnkd.in/e5RAvEW2

A flourishing democracy requires educated citizens who can achieve their full potential in a fair and prosperous society. Democracy thrives on active citizen participation. Education empowers individuals to engage in the democratic process through voting, running for office, and participating in public discourse. They can effectively advocate for their interests and contribute to shaping the future of their society. Here are some ways you can advocate for education in our community: Engage with your local school board. Support organizations that advocate for education by donating and volunteering, like LWV-Wake. Contact your elected officials by writing letters or call your representatives. and Spread awareness: talk to your friends and family about the importance of education, and share information about education issues on social media. Join our Education Committee to get involved and make a difference in Wake County, North Carolina and the US. https://lnkd.in/eKVcbEj8

Did you know that applying for the largest scholarship out there is not the easiest or smartest way to get aid for school? Large corporations offering scholarships are flooded with individuals seeking scholarships that shell out big money, while many smaller, more local scholarships are often overlooked. If you start early and spend time researching places in your own backyard, like your local community foundations, you can often find scholarships available that will help begin closing the gaps. https://lnkd.in/grvPPDtX

After beginning in September and October with our Membership Survey and finalizing at the November Forum, the results will be prioritized over a five to seven year timespan.    However, the global results are inspiring and we thought we’d share them with you.    1. Communicate the value of SCNM education series of 11-courses  2. Secure sponsorships and enhance educational strength  3. Grant research as a valuable members’ benefit  4. Facilitate network opportunities across the State of Florida  5. Branch out across State of Florida   6. Explore text message updates or reminders  7. Update website and functionality  8. Investigate ways to “interact” with website  9. Add advertising to newsletter  10. Segment nonprofit members into industries and geographic location  11. Conduct specific focus/discussion groups  12. Use YouTube channel on website  13. Conduct virtual meetings  14. Gather information into what content members would like to receive    We look forward to your involvement in Florida Nonprofits this year and into the future, as we implement these goals together.  Join or Renew Now: https://lnkd.in/gDcKtqt4

The fifteen key components to a successful Giving Day https://lnkd.in/gsc2m2J #givingdays #givingtuesdays #fundraisers #developmentsector #philanthropy #advancement #education #notforprofits

Hey everyone! 👋 It’s that time of year when we come together to make a positive impact. There are countless amazing nonprofits in Austin, each working tirelessly to create change and uplift our community. 🙌 🤝 Why Support Nonprofits? -Nonprofits play a crucial role in addressing various social issues, from education and healthcare to environmental conservation and beyond. -By supporting nonprofits, we contribute to building a stronger, more compassionate society. 🌱 How Can You Help? -Donate: Consider making a financial contribution to a nonprofit that resonates with you. Every dollar counts! -Volunteer: Your time and skills are valuable. Volunteer at local events or offer your expertise. -Spread the Word: Share their mission on social media. Awareness matters! 🎁 Challenge: If you can, challenge your friends to join you in supporting a nonprofit this year. Let’s make a difference together! 💪 Remember, even a small gesture can have a big impact. Let’s support those who are making our community a better place. ❤️ #E4Youth #AustinNonprofits #CommunityImpact

The fifteen key components to a successful Giving Day https://lnkd.in/gyEYRXG6 #givingdays #givingtuesdays #fundraisers #developmentsector #philanthropy #advancement #education #notforprofits