2006 Holiday Letter
Dear Friend of The Alexander Foundation,
On behalf of board of directors, I want to thank you for your ongoing support of the work of The Alexander Foundation. Your continued dedication to the members of the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community across Colorado has positively impacted the lives of countless individuals.
Growing up, I always became hopeful at this time of year. In my youth, of course it was hope for a certain toy, but now I hope for world peace, health, prosperity and joy for all mankind, but most importantly, to build a better life for the GLBT community in Colorado.
Over the past several years Federal monies have been diverted from state and county assistance programs that previously supported individuals in need. These programs have reeled attempting to meet the demand for services with reduced financing. Consequently, we at The Foundation have received even more applications for assistance than ever before.
This year, The Alexander Foundation celebrates 25 years as a philanthropic organization, building a community of strength and dignity through its work of providing small sums of money to those in need. I have personally witnessed the incredible effect this organization has on touching people’s lives. It is immensely rewarding to hear their stories and to be able to help so many. We could not do so much without your support.
As you will see from the life experiences of the following five individuals (whose names have been changed to protect their privacy), this year’s requests for financial assistance are higher and more compelling than all previous years.
Isabella – was disabled from a severe car accident several years ago, and unable to work. She survives on a small monthly Social Security disability check. Isabella needs to move out of her current home to escape a physically abusive relationship. Isabella’s case manager reports that Isabella’s family does not support her at all because she is lesbian. Alexander would like to help Isabella by making a deposit on an apartment of her own and assist with moving expenses so Isabella can have a safe and peaceful holiday.
Joseph – had an operation to fuse disks in his lower back about a year ago. The operation has left him unable to work and he has amassed significant credit card debt. Unfortunately, the pain has returned and he is forced to sleep on the floor to alleviate discomfort caused by his old, soft, and worn-out mattress. Alexander would like to buy Joseph a new orthopedic mattress so he can rest easy this holiday season and beyond.
Devon – manages on a very tight budget, but when unexpected expenses come up, he finds them insurmountable. Devon recently had to sell his television just to pay his rent. As he struggles with his daily challenges, he longs to be with his family and feel their loving embrace. Devon has not visited his family in New Mexico for over 20 years and would like to have enough money to not only buy his own bus ticket, but provide for himself while he is there. He would also like to take along a few modest gifts and not arrive empty–handed. Alexander would like to grant Devon’s request for a Christmas he’ll never forget.
Rose – is involved in the community through the Denver Women’s Chorus and in her application you can see her optimistic, cheery nature. She has been able to meet her financial obligations with loans from friends, but cannot face asking for more. Rose requires injections in her knees to manage pain from loss of cartilage and Fibromyalgia. She also has new glasses waiting at the optometrist, but so far, has been unable to pick them up because of the cost. Alexander would like to help Rose spread joy this holiday season by lifting some of her burden.
These accounts are but a small sampling of the thousands of requests we grant every year. At The Alexander Foundation, we act simply as the stewards of your generosity. We would like to fulfill the hopes of all of those who have a dream for a joyous holiday this year. Please make one of these three commitments now:
Over the last ten years that I’ve volunteered for The Alexander Foundation, I have seen how even a small Alexander gift can turn a life around. The average grant of The Alexander Foundation is $250. Although $250 seems a modest sum, it can significantly improve the life of an individual who is struggling to make ends meet. Some examples are:
$275 for a long-overdue trip home to visit family and bring joy to others
$450 to make a safe new home for the holidays
$500 to lift a voice from pain and to see clearly with new glasses
$700 for a mother and daughter to celebrate the season
$1000 to rest more comfortably now and for years to come
During this season of peace and hope, please be as generous as you possibly can for the benefit of those who need our help the most. Return your envelope with your gift today.
Warmest Wishes!
Eric Schwartz, Co-Chair