A $1,500 Match in Honor of Paul Von Drasek
Dear Supporters,
In honor of the dearly missed Paul Von Drasek, the wonderful Lisa Von Drasek has generously offered to match all gifts 826 MSP receives for Give to the Max Day—up to $1,500!
Paul was a board member with 826 MSP, formerly Mid-Continent Oceanographic Institute, from 2013-2019. He played many roles within our organization, including Vice Board Chair. As a board member, Paul was instrumental in helping our organization join the 826 National network of youth writing centers, and in making connections in the publishing industry as we developed that arm of our programming.
Most importantly, Paul was an incredible volunteer with our organization, across many of our programs. He was a patient and kind After-School tutor, an incredible cranky captain in our Field Trips program, and a steadfast Young Authors' Book Project volunteer. He volunteered for the program year after year, helping youth produce five beautiful anthologies that will live on as a testament to his spirit.
In recognition of Paul and Lisa's love of books, 826 MSP's library was dedicated to Paul earlier this year. (Many of our books come from Lisa and her work with the University of Minnesota Libraries.) Hear the dedication by our Program Director, Cristeta Boarini.
Your support will help us provide...
Essential tutoring time to combat pandemic-related learning loss
Academic skills building and creative writing in our new Young Authors' Book Project with 6th grade students at Sandburg Middle School
College essay workshops in the Writers' Room and for our Young Authors' Council
Field Trips for students in grades 1-4
Dynamic opportunities for youth to express themselves and grow their network, such as our Books for Breakfast event last week
826 MSP exists to support the next generation of Twin Cities writers. Help us do that by making a gift today in Paul's honor.
In community,
the 826 MSP crew
P.S. If you tried to donate at Books for Breakfast and had technical difficulties, please give here to help us unlock this generous match.
