The Patrick J. Michaels New Life Memorial Fund

Pat Michaels strongly believed in the power of voluntary cooperation to accomplish good in the world. He believed that the individuals and institutions closest to a problem were in the best position to make sound decisions to help solve those problems.

Shortly after he passed away, his wife Rachel became aware of a family whom she believes Pat would have wanted to help. She believes that Pat's wide network of friends, family, and colleagues have the power to make a meaningful difference for a young family at a truly crucial point in their lives.

Early on the morning of July 20, a new baby boy came into the world. His mother is only 18 and has spent the last four years in foster care. His father is caring for his family but is also young and has few family members of his own to rely on for help. Next month, the family will be moving to another state--further away from their limited network of support--so that the father can pursue his college education. He has a full-ride athletic scholarship and will be studying for a business degree. The mother intends to finish her final semester of high school online before eventually going to college, perhaps for social work. She has already shown extraordinary courage in protecting her younger siblings and would like to protect other children in similar circumstances.

Since the father's scholarship doesn't include room and board, the family has a pressing need for stable housing. Rachel hopes to be able to provide the family with a security deposit on an apartment and several months of rent. All donations will be administered by a close friend of Pat and Rachel on behalf of the family. This friend is in regular contact with the mother and is providing support in "adulting" for this young family.

Thank you for contributing to the ongoing legacy of Pat Michaels!