These are tough times. I don't know about you, but I want to bring a little more joy, a little more equity & justice, a little more connection into the world. Actually, a LOT more if I can manage it.

That's why I'm raising money for the 11th year for Everybody Wins! Vermont in the Race to the Top of Vermont on Mt. Mansfield. And why I really hope you will help me.

Everybody Wins! brings regular folks into schools around Vermont and matches them with children. These mentor pairs read together every week for the whole school year.

It sounds simple, and it is, really, At the same time, Everybody Wins! programs have an effect that ripples out into the community:

Children read better, AND feel more connected to their community, know that more adults care about them.

Mentors give back, AND reap the benefits of volunteering for their hearts, minds, and health.

Schools get needed help for children, AND find that mentors support the school more in public discussions.

Communities benefit too, because everyone is welcome at Everybody Wins! regardless of their background, convictions, or beliefs. Mentors encounter folks from their community they would never otherwise meet. Frayed community ties are renewed.

Everybody Wins! puts more joy, more justice & equity, and more connection into the world. We can all use that right now.

So come along! Help me bring more mentors to more children in more schools next year. Bring a little joy, a little equity, a little connection into the world. Oh, and reading. Lots of reading!