The Net is Still Expanding

Here is a brief but passionate update on all the wonderful things that have happened over the holiday weekend that are a true sign that the Lord really wants this project to take flight. Remember, we are located in a small town that very few people recognize outside of the Pittsburgh City limits, and even those folks are not really sure that we exist only 30 miles away :)

• Two national sponsors have come forward to provide goodie-bag items for our fundraiser in November, not to mention all of the products that I've received to review on my Gift Therapist Blog. BIG companies and PR firms are sending a lot of great samples because they know that ultimately they will be given to a great cause in gift-baskets at the fundraiser as well. I think I'm going to have to rent a storage unit for all of this stuff :)
• Camera Bartolotta, a former LA actress who now calls the Mon Valley her home is excited to become involved in the Black Pants Project. She is a certified image coach and has worked with working wardrobe organizations all over the country. She admitted that she has been looking for a local program like this to get involved with but couldn't find one...until God brought us together last week.
• And now for the biggie...Princeton University's Department of Social Sciences has contacted me in order to include the Schooner Youth Center and the Black Pants Project in a comprehensive study that analyzes how social service programs are delivered in pockets of high poverty. Best part...they are coming here to tour our facility on July 21st. I told you we were going to put the Mid-Mon Valley on the map.

Those are the biggies, but I can't overlook the everyday miracles that I receive in the form of volunteer inquiries, encouraging words and kindness from strangers. These are the gems that give me sustenance and courage to keep moving forward in faith. Praise the Lord!