Dear friends and family,

I am writing to you today on behalf of Youth Homes, a Montana nonprofit organization that works with at-risk children an their families.  As a member of their Run 4 Kids Team, I have committed to raising a goal of at least $500 and I will participate in the Missoula Marathon on June 28th in honor of the children who have benefited from the Youth Homes programs.

Because of the Youth Homes organization, over 12,000 at-risk children in Western Montana have be given the opportunity to experience childhood in a safe and secure place to call home since 1971. Each day they serve over 300 children and families through their emergency shelters, therapeutic group homes, foster care and adoption programs and counseling services. Over 90% of these kids improve their grades and stay in school and nearly 95% graduate or get their GED. Most importantly, the Youth Homes provides kids the chance to be a kid and work on building healthy relationships that will be their base for moving forward as a healthier and happier adult.

I feel fortunate to have this chance to make a difference in the lives of local youth. I will keep these children’s stories in my mind and in my heart as I train and gear up for this race.

I challenge you to help me meet my goals to help children heal in the Missoula community. All donations are tax-deductible. Please consider asking your employer if they do company matches on donations that you make.

Thank you for all of your support!

Paul Valent