On November 4, 2010 Alexis, a young woman in Daybreak’s housing program, bravely shared her childhood story of abandonment and longtime abuse with over 425 guests at our Champions for Youth fundraiser.
Kicked out of the house when she turned 18, Alexis finally found the home she’d always wished for when she arrived at Daybreak.
With help from her Daybreak family, Alexis moved into our Beachler Apartments, finished high school, and pursued her dream of going to college. Most importantly, she says, she learned how to overcome her anger and have a positive outlook on life.
Alexis, now 20 years old and thriving in our housing program, works at McDonald’s and is studying early childhood education at Wright State University. Someday she wants to pursue an advanced degree and be a school principal.
In addition, Alexis aspires to be a role model to youth whose childhoods were similar to hers. She wants them to know that it’s possible to let go of the past and make plans for a productive future.
After hearing Alexis speak, Champions for Youth guests were asked to consider making a donation to Daybreak. We’re pleased to tell you that as of today over $96,000 has been donated in sponsorships, one-time gifts, and multi-year pledges.
We extend our deepest thanks to the 37 individuals who served as table captains and worked diligently to fill their tables. Their efforts were vital to the success of our Champions for Youth event.
Thanks also to Daybreak youth Austin, Brittany, Chantel, David, D’Yonte, Francina, and Zach for welcoming our guests and handing out programs.
We appreciate the generosity of Battelle & Battelle, the Champions for Youth’s signature sponsor for the seventh year in a row, and to our table sponsors. Thanks to their support, every dollar donated at the event went directly to our programs and services for homeless youth.
Finally, we’re deeply grateful to Alexis for agreeing to share some of the horrifying facts of her early life with a roomful of strangers. Alexis is just one of the reasons we’re so grateful for our generous donors.
You make it possible for Alexis, and hundreds of other kids just like her, to be safe at Daybreak and pursue their dreams of better futures. Thank you.