A Holiday Message from Our Founder and CEO

Dear Friends,

As 2010 comes to a close, I want to thank you for your support over the past nine months.  During a keynote speech I recently delivered at a summit on preventing high school drop-out, I told the students in attendance that the ideas generated during the summit could have major impacts on people's lives.  The proof I gave them was Generation Hope.

What was once an idea has now grown into an innovative organization that is about to begin its critical work of decreasing the number of families living in poverty by providing direct sponsorships and support to teen parents who are attending college.  I am so proud of where we are today and proud of the wonderful people who have helped us get here.  We are certainly ending 2010 with a bang.

Last week, we met with our law firm, Shearman and Sterling, to discuss their pro-bono legal services for our 501(c)3 status and tax exemption.  This is a huge step for Generation Hope as it will allow us to apply for much-needed funding and to move forward with our FY2011 Strategic Plan.  The most exciting part of this plan is enrolling our first class of Generation Hope Scholars in the Fall. 

There's truly no limit to what you can do with passionate and dedicated people.  This is why I have high expectations for 2011.  There is a tremendous amount of work ahead, and current economic conditions indicate that fundraising will not be easy.  Therefore, as we work to fully launch Generation Hope, we will need your support, efforts, and dedication more than ever.  

As a group unified by our commitment to strengthening families, investing in education, and decreasing poverty, I have no doubts about our ability to rise to the occasion in 2011.  Thank you again for your support.  Enjoy your holidays.  Enjoy your families.  I look forward to experiencing Generation Hope's successes together in 2011.