Friend and Family Letter

May 8, 2010
Dear Family and Friends,

As you may or may not know, I will be leaving August 8th to volunteer with the Jesuit Volunteer Corps. I have chosen JVC because it combines Christian values, living with other supportive Jesuit Volunteers, and unmatched guidance and support. I am nervous, excited, overjoyed, and as prepared as possible to leave the comfort and familiarity of Peoria in order to serve others.

JVC is a non-profit organization that assists the Catholic Church with its educational and pastoral activities in mission areas of the United States. I will have the opportunity to integrate my Christian faith into my daily life while working those who are poor and marginalized.

By living simply (no internet, TV, or car), doing justice, deepening my faith, and building community, the four principles of JVC, I will be filled with a greater understanding of those I am serving.

So where will I be living and what will I be doing? Well, I am moving to the country music capital, Nashville, TN. I will be working for Project Reflect at Smithson-Craighead Academy, a Christian charter school, as a fifth grade teacher. Since my compensation is only room, board, and a $100 monthly stipend, I am able to save Project Reflect $20,000. Because I receive no salary, the students, 95% of whom qualify for Title 1 services based on a low socioeconomic status, will have a greater chance of receiving an individualized education.

Since other expenses are involved, including five retreats, two local field support visits by a staff member, and ongoing support program, I am required to raise at least $500 to defray those costs. Throughout the application and now preparation process, everyone has been responsive to my needs, requests, and concerns. Without the support of the JVC employees, the program would not be as successful. I hope that you will take time to consider supporting financially, spiritually, or both.

Donations are tax deductible and through checks made payable to JVC or online credit card donations at www.jesuitvolunteers.org (see attached directions for both). Please call, email, or write if you have any questions.

Throughout the year, I will be keeping in touch through email and my blog, www.colleenruinedforlife.blogspot.com. Whether financial or spiritual, I appreciate your support.

Colleen A. Swanson
309 634-6897

How you can help!
~Checks made payable to JVC or Jesuit Volunteer Corps
*It is crucial that you write that the donation is for Colleen Swanson (either in the memo line or on a separate sheet of paper). If not noted, the money will not be credited to my fundraising effort and it will go to the general fund.
*You may mail checks to:
Colleen Swanson or Jesuit Volunteer Corps
444 Nappanee Pt. 801 St. Paul Street
Peoria, IL 61604 Baltimore, MD 21202
~Online credit card donations
1. Go to www.jesuitvolunteers.org
2. Click the “Donate Now” tab on the top right
3. On the left, click “Send me to serve” and then the icon that appears
4. On the left, choose “Find a JV to Support” and searching with my name
Or
Go directly to my donation page at:
https://atl.etapestry.com/fundraiser/JesuitVolunteerCorps/CelebrateLA/individual.do?participationRef=2315.0.94618697