A Birthday, a $3,000 Match, and a Whole Lot of Possibility!

A special message from Joelle, Executive Director of Empower & Shine:

Well, it’s officially my birthday month, and I’ve decided to do something a little different this year!

Instead of birthday presents, I’m asking for something that means a whole lot more to me.

I’m personally matching every donation to Empower & Shine’s Keep Her in School PAD Project, dollar for dollar, up to $3,000!

That means if we raise $3,000 together, I’ll contribute another $3,000, bringing our total to $6,000 to help keep girls in school in Uganda!

And here’s where things could get even more exciting!

Empower & Shine is currently working with the Rotary Club of Maya on a Global Grant application through Rotary International. If it all comes together, there’s the potential for additional matching funds from Empower & Shine and Rotary International. Imagine how much further we could take this!

Why This Project Means So Much to Me

As a woman, I know how important access to menstrual products is. It’s something many of us don’t think twice about.

But imagine being a young girl who has to miss school every month simply because she doesn’t have access to sanitary pads.

Missing school leads to falling behind, and for some girls, eventually dropping out altogether.

All because of something as natural as having a period.

And here’s the part that really gets me.

TEN DOLLARS.

That’s approximately what it costs to provide one girl with reusable sanitary pads.

Ten dollars!

We’re not talking about thousands of dollars to make a difference in one girl’s life. We’re talking about the price of a couple of coffees.

And with my birthday match, your $10 becomes $20!

Let’s See What We Can Do Together!

I’ve been fortunate enough to be part of some incredible projects through Empower & Shine, but this one has really captured my heart.

And since today is Be the Impact Day, I figured there couldn’t be a better time to launch my birthday challenge.

Whether you can give $10, $25, $100, or more, every donation counts. There is absolutely no amount too big or too small.

And remember, I’m matching every dollar until we reach $3,000!

Ready to Help Me Celebrate?

Visit AZ Foundation and make your donation to the Keep Her in School PAD Project.

Please be sure to designate your gift to the PAD Project so it counts toward my birthday matching challenge.

Donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.

I can’t think of a better birthday present than knowing we’re helping more girls stay in school.

Let’s see if we can hit that $6,000!

With love and gratitude,

Joelle Lever

Executive Director

Empower & Shine