Every single day at Rise Academy, we seek to empower our students to not let the circumstances of the present dictate their potential for the future.

They work hard; they are nice. In exchange, our staff does whatever we can to help them reach their dreams for the future. When I enter the building each day, I know I will encounter students who can't wait to boast to me that they read an entire book last night. Earlier today, I watched a thirteen year old stand bravely in front of a microphone and share poetic sentiments about how they will not fade into the siren-songs they hear in their neighborhood each night.

As many of you know, last year I asked you to click on a button each day for a month to help give these deserving kids a "field of dreams". Though Pepsi ultimately was not able to contribute to this effort, many exciting partnerships and opportunities were forged that will enable us to make this field a reality for our students by raising less than 50% of the overall cost of the project's completion.

With this in mind, I once again ask for your support by requesting that you donate anything you can to this campaign, There is no donation too small; even five dollars brings us five dollars closer to our goal. Whether or not you are able to contribute personally, I hope that you will consider sending this link to those you know who might be interested in leveling the playing field for our students.

We've never been closer to our goal and I continue to appreciate the support you've provided along the way.