Jennifer in New York

Just because my own work and studies tends to take me to the developing world doesn't mean I am not aware of the serious economic and social issues that individuals in the U.S. face every day. In fact, my first introduction to public health was working with Harlem RBI. U.S. urban public schools often have upwards of 40 children in one class with one teacher! New supplies are limited, buildings are often old and unsafe, playgrounds non-existent and teachers face the additional challenges of working with students who often have stresses at home. With that in mind I commend my amazing sister Jennifer Gold and all the great work she does for students facing the serious challenges and disadvantages of urban public schools in the U.S.
For those of you that don't know, Jen just finished an amazing stint working at a Langston Hughes Academy in New Orleans, the first Charter elementary school to open after Katrina! She is back in NY now, but her dedication to urban students hasn't waned.
This she is going to be participating in NYCARES Day 2010, working to revitalizing public schools in NY. I've copied her email below all about it, but I have to say its a great cause. Besides the work she and her team will be doing that day, the money she and her group are raising are going to the Nicole Schiffman Foundation, a great foundation, in honor of a wonderful girl the world lost far too soon.
Here is more information on NY Cares day, as well as a link to donate to this wonderful cause.
NY Cares Day is a day of service to revitalize public schools in all 5 boroughs. Along with 7,000 other volunteers, we will be painting hundreds of colorful murals, adding bright new line games to playgrounds, organizing school libraries, planting flowers, and more to create inspiring learning environments.
Like a walkathon, we are asking for your support by making a donation to New York Cares in honor of our service.
Every dollar donated to New York Cares amounts to $6 in service to the community. By raising $100 dollars, we can help:
· Provide 10 low-income students with one-on-one SAT tutoring for one year
· Prepare and serve 1,800 meals to the hungry and homebound.
· Grant books and supplies to 15 children in an Early Morning Reading program
· Buy children art supplies for a semester-long Art Explores programs
· Give 12 adult immigrants study materials to prepare for the U.S. Citizenship exam.
Donations are greatly appreciated and can be made by following the link below:
http://www.newyorkcaresday.org/nicoleschiffmanfoundation

Thanks for your generosity!