I'd like to give you an update on an Affinity Fund Grant recipient from Marshall Elementary School in SF; Monique. I applied for a grant of $500 on her behalf last May, to support her interest in, and clear talent for, gymnastics. She was awarded the $500 grant, and began taking weekly lessons at the American Gymnastic Club in San Francisco. I was able to visit Monique and her grandmother (Leticia) yesterday at the gym, and had a WONDERFUL time.

       Her grandmother told me she absolutely loves the class. She pays attention, tries hard, and gets along very well with the other students in her group. She is also developing her skills quickly; during my visit, the manager told Leticia that Monique is ready to advance to a level two group as she has mastered each of the skills taught in her current level one class. "Is that good?" Leticia asked. "Many students spend an entire year in level one, Monique is learning very quickly," the manager said. Leticia was thrilled, and Monique was beyond excited upon hearing this.

       I spoke with Monique after her class ended, and she thanked me repeatedly for the opportunity to participate in the gymnastics class; these thanks clearly belong to PVF and it's supporters/donors! Monique also told me that she is teaching a few friends from school some of her new skills--handstands, splits, cartwheels, and balance beam "moves." Her grandmother confirmed this, describing Monique's "classes" that she teaches at home. Leticia added, "Please tell the people who have given Monique this opportunity, 'thank you' because we would never have been able to give her this opportunity otherwise. Monique, and I, appreciate this very, very much."

      Thank you again for supporting Monique--and her family--through your Affinity Fund program! Best wishes,