Throughout the course of my new venture into the non-profit world I have asked myself if I am capable of taking on this huge task. Will I be successful? Can I raise enough money to give people significant grants, grants that will really make a difference? I know that I may have to start with smaller grants and then lead up to more substantial grants, and I think that is okay. But, right now we are such a grassroots operation that it is hard to imagine having a large endowment.

Our first fundraising event is coming up at the end of April. It is my first attempt at raising a large sum of money. It is my first attempt at a lot of things. Luckily I am a good party planner, I planned my wedding, wedding showers, baby showers, etc. I know a lot of things I need to do to make the event enjoyable for the guests; it is getting them there that is the hard part.
My Board members and family are my cheering section, and it helps to have people who believe in you. But, most of all some individuals have reached out to me for advice and guidance. It is nice to know that I am making a difference in someone’s life. I send them to my website and blog where they can read my stories but also find links to many other blogs.

The comments I have received of gratitude and kind words are what will keep me on this path. I have my whole heart in making this a success. There are so many things I want this non-profit to accomplish and I do believe it will; with the help of many people, we will be successful.

This is why the essay contest is very important. Those who feel like they are alone and those who do not understand the complexities of infertility and adoption need to hear stories from other people. I encourage you to submit an essay. Your story can help so many people.