Help Joel raise money

Dearest family and friends—

I am scheduled to run the Beach to Beacon 10k– a Maine institution - in early August as part of a fundraiser for Valo, an organization close to my heart.  Valo helps teens navigate a complex time in their lives at a complex time in our world. 

One of the most fundamental, yet critical, aspects of Valo’s work is it helps teens connect with others face-to-face and engage in meaningful, unplugged, conversations. Valo provides the space for teens to step away from daily stresses and practice the tools needed to better understand themselves and the experience of others.  What they gain is improved emotional wellbeing. You are likely aware that study upon study today is detailing the alarmingly high rates of depression and anxiety in adolescents. Valo is deeply committed to changing this trend.

As you may remember, Meeghan has worked at Valo for many years, both as its Outreach Director and as a Retreat Guide, so I’ve had a chance to watch up close the great work being done at Valo. I have seen firsthand the tremendous, transformative impact it has on its kids. One of the aspects that I personally love most about Valo is how it uses food and cooking to bring teens together by gathering them for big, family-style dinners as part of its weekend retreats. These meals get the kids to slow down, collaborate and connect with one another in ways they normally can’t in their overly scheduled, media-filled lives. Most of you know how critical cooking and communal eating are to my emotional wellbeing, so it makes me so happy to know that Valo embraces the power of “slow food” and offers young people the opportunity to build connection and community through shared meals. 

While I know you are likely asked to do much for many as part of your day-to-day lives, I am asking you to please consider supporting me, and donating to Valo by clicking on my Beach to Beacon “Donate” link. I believe whole-heartedly that Valo’s work with young people has never been more timely or important.  Thank you so much for your consideration!

Warmest regards and big hug, 

joel