Needs help getting to D.C.

Hello, my name is Abbey Bryson. I'm entering my junior year at Whitefish High School, and I have been nominated and have been accepted by invitation to attend the National Young Leaders Conference in Washington, D.C.

Chris Schwaderer, an English teacher at the school, nominated me because of my academic performance and leadership qualities. I am very honored to be accepted and am excited to attend this conference in October. Since it is recommended that I raised some of the expense myself, I am asking for your support.

I am an active student in the classroom and am in many organizations that reach out to our community. I was in the founding group of United Students, a branch of Montana Behavioral Initiative, whose main goal is to improve the school's environment. I have been in Key Club for two years, where I have participated in many community services throughout the school year, such as the Kiddy Carnival during the Whitefish Winter Carnival.

I have been a member of CARE, a volunteer nonprofit organization whose goal is to promote a safe a drug-free school environment, and PEACE, a volunteer nonprofit organization that stands for Peers Educating and Advocating for Changing Expectations. Sponsored by the Violence Free Crisis Line, PEACE brings awareness of dating and domestic violence through presentations in the schools around the valley and provides crisis support to victims. I also enjoyed being a volunteer ski instructor for three years with The Big Mountain Ski Club.

Another example of my leadership qualities is reflected in my work as a guidance aide in the counseling department at the high school. I have learned the skills of technical climbing by rigging the ropes course and facilitating its use, including the high school's Adventures in Personal Development class and the fourth grade team-building workshops.

Attending the National Young Leaders Conference costs $1,335, which includes presentations and activities, housing, breakfast and dinner. I will be investing money I have earned, and my parents have paid for my airfare. I would very much appreciate any financial support you could provide me to help me attend this conference. Thank you for your consideration.

Abbey Bryson

Whitefish