Tag Archives: West Virginia

Day 173: Margaret

Several of my letters this year have been about my involvement with Street Sense, a nonprofit here in Washington, DC that gives men and women experiencing homelessness economic opportunities through their media center. It’s a beautiful organization, empowering people and giving them much-needed income through producing and selling a newspaper, photography, film, theater, audio storytelling, blogging, etc.

At the core of this organization is a very small dedicated staff of four. They’re supported by a group of amazing volunteers and board members. I serve as secretary of the board which is led by today’s recipient. Margaret works tirelessly to increase the impact that the organization has on the community.

Tonight she hosted a happy hour for her birthday to raise money and awareness for the organization. We met at Penn Social, surrounded by corn hole, giant connect four, ping pong and other games.

I learned that being president of the board of directors was not Margaret’s only leadership dream in life. When she was in high school she dreamed of being president of the United States. In fact, I’m told that there were even cards made up saying MARGARET 2016!

While it seems another woman is garnering all the attention for the upcoming presidential race, Margaret might just make a run at the 2020 election, or maybe go back and be governor of her home state of West Virginia. Either way, she’s got my vote and my 173rd letter.

Day 173

Happy Birthday Margaret!

I’m honored to be a part of your special day. Thank you for everything you do for Street Sense. I want you to know how much I appreciate your enthusiasm, optimism and leadership. 

You’re a Rock Star!
Reed

 

Day 166: Dad

Dad and me doing renovations at the cabin on New Year's Eve 2014.

Dad and me doing renovations at the cabin on New Year’s Eve 2014.

June 15th is the Worldwide Day of Giving! It’s a day that I helped start 5 years ago after embarking on a year-long journey of micro-philanthropy. Hopefully you will consider some form of altruistic giving today.

Today, my letter is to my father. As much as I tease him about his quirkiness (he tethers his phone and wallet to his clothes so he doesn’t loose them), he’s a amazing man and incredible Dad. He’s supported me, listened to me, believed in me and loved me unconditionally for 41 years. I’m thankful for him every day, but Father’s Day is a special time to recognize everything he has done and continues to do for our family.

Thank you Dad. I love you very much.

Day 166

Dear Dad,

If you take route 7 west past Reedsville (I like that town) to Morgantown and then pick up I-79 south for about 20 miles you’ll discover the small city of Fairmont, WV along the banks of the Monongahela River. It was there in July of 1908 that the first Father’s Day was celebrated. It was held in honor of the more than 200 fathers who lost their lives in the Monogah Mining disaster of 1907.

Day 166-2I’ve got tickets to see the Pirates farm team, the West Virginia Black Bears, take on the Cleveland Indians’ Mahoning Valley Scrappers Sunday afternoon. I thought we could have lunch in Fairmont and then catch the game. How does that sound?

Happy Father’s Day! I love you very much.
Jason