January 2011 Newsletter

Dear Firewall Friends,

As we reflect on this past year there is only one thing that we can say – “WOW, what a great year!” Firewall was able to impact more lives than ever.  Students have been transformed to a greater degree and, most excitingly, there is great expectancy of even more in the coming year. We know that our efforts are only possible because of the contributions we receive from generous friends like you, and we want to thank you again for believing in and supporting our mission.

Students Share and Serve
Just like our students build positive relationships every day at our centers, Firewall was able to establish new relationships and solidify existing ones at our Student-to-Leader Breakfast in December.  As our guests arrived at the Signature Grand, they were able to interact with Firewall Students as they were greeted and escorted  to their tables by representative students from our West Davie Center.  Testimonies of transformation were showcased in video, as well as in live presentations from our students.

Meeting the Challenge
Also in December, Firewall was blessed to have been presented with a matching challenge grant of $25,000.00.  It was great to see how our supporters proved to be “up for the challenge.”  As we totaled the donations received at the Student-to-Leader breakfast, in addition to gifts that came in throughout the month, we far exceeded the $25,000.00 goal.  This brought in a much needed financial boost at year-end which will allow us to prepare for expansion to more sites that mentor even more students in this coming school year!