$5 to $50 Challenge - Support Head Start

I am on the Board of the Oregon Child Development Coalition, which just launched its "$5 to $50 Challenge." OCDC provides head start, early head start, and pre-kindergarten programs, using proven curricula and exceptional teachers. In addition to childcare and early childhood education, OCDC's holistic approach includes parental engagement and apprenticeship programs, prenatal and early childhood nutrition, health, and dental services, home visits, transportation to and from the centers, literacy and school readiness programs, and services to special needs children. Last year, OCDC served over 3,800 Oregon children, and provided employment to more than 1,400 Oregonians. OCDC is currently engaged in a capital campaign to raise funds to expand its facilities, including a new facility in Hillsboro that will provide 105 full time jobs, plus 80 construction jobs, and will create space to serve 480 additional children.

Here's the pitch:

"We need your help. The Meyer Memorial Trust has challenged OCDC to a matching funds contribution campaign. These funds will greatly help OCDC maintain adn improve our facilities and services. Please show your support for OCDC by becoming a donor. The more donors OCDC has, the better - the act of contributing matters as much as the amount of the contribution."

"Visit us online at www.ocdc.net to donate over the internet. While you are there, please check out our redesigned web page. You may also send a check to:

Oregon Child Development Coalition
ATTN: Donations
PO Box 2780
Wilsonville, Oregon 97070

"OCDC strives to serve some of the neediest children in the State of Oregon with nutritious meals, quality early childhood education, and family services."

I am proud and grateful to be involved with such a wonderful group, and wanted to share this opportunity with all of you.