Here at CLiF we feel lucky to have such a wide range of supporters. We receive donations from authors, educators, retirees, families, small businesses, and foundations, just to name a few. But it’s a rare and touching occasion when a young donor approaches us with an interest in supporting CLiF.

That is precisely what happened recently. Julia Parent, an 8th grader at Williston Central School, chose to make CLiF the focus of her year-long community service project, called the 8th Grade Challenge. Combining her interest in photography and her love of reading, she created and is selling greeting cards, coasters, bookmarks, and framed photographs, the proceeds of which will be donated to CLiF.

Julia has truly gone above and beyond for this project. Her photos of the flowers, trees, and beautiful landscapes of Vermont are breathtaking, and her products are professional and well-made. Not only are they visually appealing, but they educate as well – Julia shares CLiF’s story with her customers, and her bookmarks contain facts about literacy. She’s created an Etsy store to sell her wares, and she plans on attending craft fairs, farmers markets, and Williston Central School events to continue vending these items. At a recent craft fair, she grossed $234. What a great start to this special project!

Please scoot on over to Julia’s Etsy store to see more of her fantastic work. We applaud Julia, because she exemplifies that giving comes in all forms. Her creativity and dedication to this project will help bring funding to programs that support her peers all over New Hampshire and Vermont. We continue to be amazed at the talents of our CLiF family and the unique ways our supporters find to donate their time, energy, and dollars to CLiF.

Bravo, Julia, and thanks again for your support!