I find it difficult to
believe that a year has passed since I sat down to compose a Make A Difference -
Wisconsin update and year-end greeting.
Clearly it has been a tumultuous 12 months in our economy. But I am most pleased to share with you that
it has been a year of accomplishment and growth for MAD-WI.
We have signed on 600 volunteers, delivered the program
in 60 schools, and reached close to 13,000 students - all in a
little over three years! And, we
know the program is making a difference.
The behavioral-focused outcomes research completed during the 2008/2009
school year shows the impact we're making.
Of the students we surveyed who completed the program:
- 24%
opened a savings account;
- 48%
are trying to save money every month;
- 64%
are staying away from check cashing stores; and
- 69%
are sharing what they've learned with family and friends.
I hope your computer screen reflects the smile that should be on your
face. Without your support,
participation, and special effort none of this would have been
possible. And it certainly would not
have happened without our dedicated board of
directors and our phenomenal staff: Brenda Campbell, Kathie Yaeger, and
our newest addition, Dan Schiller.
But, please remember that
accomplishment and recognition also opens doors. We have the opportunity to reach more
students and serve more schools but for the lack of funds. You can make a big difference by finding a
way to support MAD-WI financially. Our
cost per student is an astonishingly low $30.
If each of our volunteers and friends made a year-end contribution of
just $100, we could reach an additional 2,000+ students!
Regardless of your ability
to make a financial contribution, please accept my sincere thanks for your
involvement. And, what is more
important, understand that together we are making a difference in our
community!
Please also accept my
heartfelt wish for a joyous, healthy and happy holiday season and a prosperous
New Year for you and your family. May
2010 see a world closer to peace, more of our brave troops home with their loved
ones, and progress on the road to economic recovery for our great
country.
Very
sincerely,
Lloyd
Lloyd Levin
Make A Difference -
Wisconsin
Founder &
President