Headed to DC to learn from the pros

My name is Elyse Luecke and I'm a sophomore at Grand Center Arts Academy in St. Louis, Missouri. I was selected out of thousands of applicants from all over the world to serve as a National Youth Correspondent at one of the top student media conferences in the country - the Washington Journalism and Media Conference  - and I need help getting there!

As an active member of my school journalism program and editor of our school student news website, GCAAtoday. Journalism is something I am very passionate about, in fact, I plan to pursue this endeavor in college and my career. But, I can't get there without your help.

My mother, who believes in everything I do and is one of my  biggest supporters, has been battling a terminal illness and is in and out of hospital care. Because of this, we do not have the money or resources to make this dream a reality. On top of this, I attend an inner-city charter school that struggles to find funds for even basic resources.

That is why I need YOU.

The conference will take place this summer, and I need the payment by the middle of May 2016. Although I have recieved a scholarship for $1,500.00, it doesn't cover the remaining cost of the conference, which is $500.00. Additionally, I will also need help paying for some meals, airfare to and from Fairfax, Virginia, and extra spending money. (I will be staying in the dormitory at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia.)

I am asking that if you are able to help, you could make a donation to this dream. For me, the Washington Journalism and Media Conference is more than just a fun field trip, It is a pathway toward my future success and a chance to make my mother, school community, and the state of Missouri proud.