Dear friends, family and colleagues,

As a Board Member at Friends of the Children – New York, I’m deeply committed to the work we do — and this October, I’m putting that commitment into motion by participating in our 6th Annual Run with Friends 5K.  My goal is to raise over $25,000 by October 1st, 2025, to help support the vital work of Friends of the Children -- a nonprofit that provides professional, long-term mentorship to youth facing systemic obstacles, walking alongside them from kindergarten through graduation.  This work changes lives — and I’ve seen it up close.  My goal of $25,000 is equivalent to more than TWO YEARS of mentorship for one achiever.  To help me reach my goal, I will personally match every dollar raised, up to $15,000.  Additionally, the organization will be matching ALL new donor gifts up to $100,000.

Here is the link to our website if you would like to learn more about the organization:  https://friendsnewyork.org.  One story I hope you’ll read is about Ms. Makeba, a Harlem mother of five whose children have found support, stability, and hope through their mentors (https://friendsnewyork.org/stories/makebas-story).

I’d be so grateful if you would support my run and help fuel this life-changing work.  Every donation helps provide consistent, caring relationships that empower our Achievers to thrive.

Thank you for being part of this with me.

Best, Matt