From the Founder
It is difficult for me to believe that ten years have passed since I founded Growth Through Learning. For sure it has been both a challenging and rewarding experience. Since 1998 we have succeeded in supporting a greater number of girls each year. The first year we provided scholarships to just 12 students. This number has steadily increased, and this past fiscal year we provided 249 scholarships. The total number since our beginning is 1156, and the total number of individuals that have received scholarships is 491.
Our fund-raising efforts have been quite productive, and I am happy to report that by the end of our tenth year GTL received over $1,075,000 of total income. We have also secured a $1M endowment designed to provide us with a substantial portion of our operating expenses. This grant allows a greater percentage of a donor’s contribution to be available for the purpose it was intended – to provide scholarships. The grantor of this endowment believed strongly in our mission and wished to help the organization with salary for an executive director and office expenses, thereby providing stability and longevity to the organization. Sadly, this generous benefactor died earlier this year.
On August 3rd I was really surprised when an invitation for dinner with friends turned out to be a celebration for the 10th anniversary of the beginnings of GTL and my tenure as Founder and President during that time. I am deeply flattered and grateful that the Board chose to celebrate this hallmark event and appreciate the commendation from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the plaque sent by our Scholarship Coordinators in East Africa.
It is now time for me to step down as President and Chairman of Growth Through Learning. Naturally, that is a difficult transition as GTL has been my passion since its inception. However, I feel it is vital that I pass on my knowledge, experience, and philosophy of the organization. We have a very strong Board, and already I am receiving substantial support for my decision. This change will allow me to focus more attention on fund-raising. Thank you to all who have donated so generously in the past. GTL and the girls of East Africa will greatly appreciate your continued support.
