I have decided to join the Run 4 Kids Team again and I would like to challenge you to help me meet my fundraising goal for Youth Homes programs. As a member of their Run 4 Kids Team, I have committed to raising a goal of $500 and I will participate in the Missoula Marathon on June 28 in honor of the children who have benefited from the Youth Homes programs. Being part of this fundraiser is very meaningful to me as my daughter worked for Youth Homes before starting Law School  and I could witness firsthand how life-changing work Youth Homes does.

Because of the Youth Homes organization, over 10,000 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 exhausting adventure.

I challenge you to help me meet my goals to help children heal in our community. All donations are tax-deductible. Donating through this website is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to support my fundraising efforts. Please consider asking your employer if they do company matches on donations that you make.

Many thanks for your support -- and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to donate too!