So Much To Learn

I have to admit, I still haven't totally come down from the high associated with scoring a meeting with Kevin McDonald of TROSA.  Kevin is a professional hero of mine, and his approach to redefining the helping relationship inspires much of what we aspire to do at Reach, Inc.  In other exciting news, I recently scored another HUGE meeting.  In early September, I'll be sitting down with Jason Kamras, former National Teacher of the Year and current Director of Human Capital Strategy for District of Columbia Public Schools.  Both of these meetings will provide opportunities for significant learning, and the meeting with Jason Kamras will be our first with a senior official in the DC Public School system.  Hopefully we can convince them that Reach, Inc. should be working in DC Schools.

In addition to the networking that happens on a regular basis, financial stability is a constant concern for Reach, Inc.  As a start-up, it is imperative that we develop a strong base of direct support.  At the same time, we must begin exploring longer term funding possibilities.  This week, I spent a significant amount of time using the Washington Grantmakers' website to explore opportunities for foundation funding.  There is also plenty of research to be done about how nonprofits are dealing with the current economic crisis.  There are many reasons to be concerned, but we continue to believe we can meet our fundraising goals for our first year.  For help, I reached out to Courtney Clark Pastrick, Executive Director of the Clark Charitable Foundation, Inc.  I think it would be helpful to get some insights regarding the DC nonprofit scene, and if you read Ms. Pastrick's bio, you may notice some similarities between the two of us.  We both graduated from Duke, and we both serve on the Board of established Friends schools.  Additionally, she is involved with Everybody Wins!, a local literacy nonprofit.  I hope to hear back from her in the coming weeks.

Finally, I am excited to announce that we have just moved beyond $9,000 in donations, so we continue to make progress towards our goal of $100,000.  Additionally, Reach, Inc. issued its first paycheck this week - I, in particular, am excited about that milestone.  If you know of anyone that would be interested in donating to Reach, Inc., providing me with their contact information would be greatly appreciated.  Spreading the word, and encouraging others to donate, is hugely helpful.

How can you help?

• Do you know any DC elementary school teachers?  During the fall, I will be trying to get into DC schools to observe great literacy lessons.  Do you know anyone I should observe?  Please don't hesitate to be in touch.  

Thanks, as always, for reading,

Mark

President and Founder - Reach, Inc.