My former speech coach, Bob Ickes, often professed, "Every speech you deliver is a gift — a moment for you to share your impactful message with an audience waiting to listen." Unfortunately, even in an activity that advocates for equal access and opportunity, the resources we need to share our gifts aren’t available to everyone. I founded The Gift Givers Institute to provide free resources and coaching materials to support speech students who want to share their gifts, but most importantly, to honor Bob's memory.- Across 3 summers, instructed 200+ students across 32 states and 93 schools- 63% of summer camp students identify as LGBTQIA+- 22% of summer camp students belong to Urban Debate Leagues; 14% come from Title I schools - Recruited 39 student coaches, comprised of 11 state champions, 12 national champions, 15 national finalists- 91% Camper Retention on average across 3 years- Developed partnerships with 12 Urban Debate Leagues

The Green Ink Foundation is a youth-run initiative to spread financial literacy to young audiences through graphic novels and the arts. While it may feel too early to invest in advanced financial training, with children beginning to solidify their understanding of money habits by age nine, it’s never too early to learn the basics of finance through a sweet story. Inspired by the lack of engaging and illustrated financial literacy books for youth, the Green Ink Foundation writes, designs, and publishes stories that captivate and educate.Through direct distribution and nationwide partnerships, we work with communities, parents, and students alike to demystify financial literacy and provide access to our content.