Letter from the President 2016
Not what we give, but what we share, for the gift without the giver is bare.
- James Russell Lowell
December 12, 2016
Dear Friends and Colleagues,
Over the past 18 years, as MinneapolisNEXT quietly assisted the next generation of leaders, many contributors have asked for more information about the specific programs and kids we support. So we are excited to introduce our recently-launched blog, A Lasting Assist, which showcases the NEXT scholar program and promotes our simple, pay-it-forward ethos.
A Lasting Assist also takes MinneapolisNEXT’s commitment to youth to the next level. Our intent is to build character and community while also chronicling acts of kindness. During the 2016-17 school year, our 55 NEXT scholars at DeLaSalle and Saint Agnes high schools will write and submit essays on 10 rotating themes that focus on the character traits of good citizenship. The blog will also feature uplifting quotes, reprinted articles, and other submitted material. Student captains will administer the project under the direction of faculty advisors.
We believe student participation will deepen their connection to MinneapolisNEXT, and most importantly, complete the circle of giving NEXT began almost two decades ago. The blog will also serve as a gathering place for the MinneapolisNEXT community, inspiring and connecting hundreds of alumni, students, and donors.
The launch of the blog has generated a lot of enthusiasm with our partner schools and the scholarship recipients. We hope you will take a moment to check it out and join in the excitement. Please follow us on Facebook (@minneapolisnexttoday) to receive notice of new content. We would also love to learn more about you, and invite you to submit your themed essays. To that end, you can find a supporter questionnaire on our Contact page, and visit ALastingAssist.com for a list of upcoming themes.
MinneapolisNEXT remains committed to our low-cost operating philosophy. Our Board of Directors continues to pay all of our administrative expenses, so that 100 percent of the donations we receive can go directly to benefit kids in need. And even further than that, as we have seen over and over again - one good deed can lead to many others.
Contributions of any amount are greatly appreciated. We hope that we can count on your support. By investing in youth today, we can ensure a return on our investment for many tomorrows.
Best wishes to you and yours this holiday season,
Rexford Holland
President, MinneapolisNEXT
