On March 5th, 2016, Alyssa & I co-chaired a fundraiser called Band Together. The event (live music, food, and some auction items) raised over $30,000 for the Willowbrook Corner Youth Learning Program – which provides educational and recreational opportunities to at-risk children residing in the low-income Willowbrook Corner neighborhood. A true highlight of the evening was when our guest speakers, Artelia and her children Amar’e and Ariyanna (pictured below) shared how this program continues to make a huge difference in their lives.
For Artelia, Willowbrook Corner has provided a safe and positive place for her children during non-school hours, allowing her to hold down a full-time job. Artelia’s gratitude for the Staff at Willowbrook Corner and her testimony to what a great source of emotional support they provided for her family during some very difficult times was both encouraging and inspiring. It was so apparent that for Amar’e and Ariyanna, Willowbrook Corner is a community of support both academically and socially. It is also a place for them to practice positive decision-making skills, to make connections with people outside of their neighborhood and have extra-curricular experiences that they would otherwise not have access.
Donations are always accepted for Willowbrook Corner at: https://secure.acceptiva.com/?cst=037288
[By Matt Guido]