Disabled Vet Delegate To Democratic National Convention

I love really big challenges.

As Americans, we have a real doozy coming up in November. I raised my hand to volunteer to be part of the democratic process because it's critical that our participatory democracy have a mix of diverse experiences, voices and new ideas, and that everyone is represented. I am honored to have been elected to represent the great State of Washington at the 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago. In order to do so, however, I will need help to cover the associated travel costs.

This isn't the first time I've raised my hand and volunteered for my country. I was a linguist serving stateside in the U.S. Army during Desert Storm, and am a disabled veteran. My civilian career focused on complex contract negotiation, cross-functional change management, communication strategy, public speaking, as well as partner and coop-etition relationships on a truly global scale for Microsoft, and later, Google.

A few years ago I was forced to retire due to my disability, but I remain passionate about diversity, inclusion and representation. My teenage sons have disabilities, and I volunteer helping other families navigate the special education labyrinth as a certified IEP Parent Partner. I've driven systematic improvements in our school district, and hope expand them across our state and beyond.

As a National Delegate, I am a volunteer. All costs associated with travel, lodging, and food while attending the national convention are the responsibility of the delegate, and these costs are estimated at $5,500, which I cannot afford on my own. For security reasons, all delegates are required to stay at the designated hotel which is $349 per night before taxes. The funds I'm raising here will help me pay for the hotel, airfare, and associated travel costs while I am a National Delegate in August.

I sincerely appreciate your consideration and any support you can provide. Even sharing this request with your network can help, so thank you!