I am really blessed – I grew up in a family that continues to support my achievements and dreams.  I attended Bel-Air Prep School, participated in basketball, softball and cheerleading and went on to earn a BA degree in Communication and Public Relations.  I grew up knowing that with the right resources and a great support system, I could do anything. Now, I want to help others do the same.  

I have spent most of my adult life working in the field of early child care and education.  While I don’t have kids of my own yet, I know how hard it is to find quality child care that provides children with the skills they need to enter kindergarten, ready to learn and succeed in school and in life. 

Seven years ago, after working for another child care resource and referral agency, I had the opportunity to work for Connections For Children, a non-profit agency that connects families with child care and early education resources. CFC connects low-income families with child care subsidy to help them pay for care so they can work or attend school. CFC also provides resources to child care professionals to help them improve the quality of services they are able to offer.

This year is my seventh year at Connections For Children – lucky seven, my favorite number!  I wanted to do something special this year that pushed personal boundaries that allowed me to set and achieve new goals.  When the opportunity arose to participate in the LA Marathon as part of our charity team (Team CFC), I jumped at the chance and my mom agreed to join me. We will be participating in this amazing event together!  

In addition to completing the marathon, it is my honor to set a personal fundraising goal of $7,000 - $1,000 for each year I have been at Connections For Children to help support quality child care, education and the prevention of childhood obesity.  On March 18, 2012, I will participate in the LA Marathon for the first time with an amazing team.  I will run, walk and sweat for quality child care and in memory of Karen Kaye, who was the Executive Director of CFC for 15 years before she lost her battle with cancer on December 18, 2009.

I hope you will join me in this commitment by making a donation today.  There has never been a better time to fight for the health, welfare and success of our children.

Thank you in advance for your support!     

Chante