Maya Angelou has a quote that states, "There is no greater agnony, than bearing an untold story inside of you". I believe many of us can attest to holding dreams, visions, experiences, hurt, joy, and so many other deep and meaningful things inside ourselves, and just waiting on the opportunity to release and realize them. When was that for you? Was it education? Was it a mentor? Was it a job? How beautiful is it that we have been given the opportunity to take up space in our varied fields of work? But now, I'd like you to think of the generation that is now, the generation(s) underneath you. What about their untold stories? 

But what greater agony is there, as Aneglou said, to not be given the opportunity to share your gifts with the world? Many children are not able to due to the youth violence that plagues them. It is a sad and difficult truth to sit with, but the good news is that it doesn't have to be permanent. It is so important to see that these students are given all they need to not only survive but to thrive. Their stories will be our future. Their dreams will be our realities. We have an opportunity to invest in these stories and these dreams so that they can make it as far as they can. By donating today, you are making a pledge to end youth violence, so that these students can change the world.

Would you stand with me today as an agent of change? Whether you give $5, $10, $15, or whatever amount you decide, you are making a difference in our community. And I don't only thank you, but the students do as well!