[barryg1]

An update from the CEO:

Dear Barry,

You may recall that there were some suggestions from the participants in this challenge to perhaps use some of the funds for a playground. As I mentioned in my letter of appreciation to each, we asked for requests from our American Indian, Appalachian and Inner City Divisions.

We received one comprehensive request from our American Indian Elementary School, Puente de Hozho, in Flagstaff, Arizona. Their mission is to provide every student with the ability to speak, read, write and think in both English and a second language (Spanish or Navajo). Students with dual language skills are better prepared to meet the challenges of a global society with enhanced cognitive skills; better cross-cultural communication; enhanced problem-solving skills; and a global societal perspective.

They have a small, outdated playground (approximately 350 x 350) serving a student population of 438 mostly low-income students. The playground is used before school, at lunch break and during recess periods as the only play area for kindergarten through sixth grade students. Active physical play is recognized as an important element of child development and an intregal part of quality education. Puente de Hozho would like to be able to upgrade the playground to provide a safe, well organized facility, consistent with the high quality academic environment of the school.

Their request:
One pair of soccer goals $2,000
6 outdoor basketball hoops/nets $240
4 tetherball sets $600
2 outdoor tables with benches $1,500
3 outdoor benches $1,200
Line courts and field $2,000
Rehabilitation of primary play area:
Replace top of retaining structure $2,000
Resurface with impact safe rubber surfacing $14,000 - If possible

Total $23,540

We received $14,991 in February, $22,051 in March and so far this month, $7,761, for a total of $44,803. We have already allocated $20,160 to the Donkaments Haven Account to provide perpetual monthly assistance for 60 children while they are waiting to be chosen by a sponsor. That leaves enough to cover this request and we will still have $1,103 to assist even more of our 'waiting' children.

We had requests from three projects in our Appalachian Division for $6000 each to replace playground equipment or buy mulch, but we feel the Puente de Hozho playground would be a real tribute and would be consistent with the suggestions from the participating players.

Could you please share your thoughts on this matter?

Barry, the total of $44,803 is incredible and we are ever so grateful to you and your following for taking the challenge to reach such a remarkable figure. You also had three terrific persons who chose to sponsor children individually!

I hope your heart is swelling with pride as mine is for all that you have made possible.

With admiration and sincere gratitude, I am

Sincerely yours,

Marian