We, Grace and Lauren, are two Master of Social Work students from the University of Toledo. We are trying to raise funds to attend to CLPP Conference in Amherst, MA. CLPP, which is short for Civil Liberties and Public Policy, is a conference aimed at young professionals and activists who work towards promoting reproductive health and social change.  Neither Lauren nor I have attended this conference before and we are both very excited to have the opportunity to attend this year. Lauren and I are both interested in macro social work and we plan on working on that level post graduation. Because of this, attending the CLPP is the perfect conference for us to attend. Not only do we plan on working on the macro arena with a heavy focus on social justice once we graduate, but both of our internships are also on the mezzo/macro level.  Attending the CLPP won't only assist us in the future, but will directly impact us in our current field placements. Our biggest obstacle right now is the cost attached with attending the conference.  Between travel, hotel, and conference cost, we have estimated that it will cost $571 per person, or $1,142 total. (**EDIT: our original estimate is incorrect. Because flights increased in cost, as well as hotel prices, the total goal is $1605. Please see below for price breakdowns**) We did apply for a travel stipend through the conference, but we did not receive it.  Although this means that others will now be able to attend the conference, it also means that we must take to the internet and ask our friends, family, colleagues, and even strangers to assist us.  I know that the skills and relationships Lauren and I will develop at the CLPP will greatly expand our ability to effect innovative change as soon-to-be MSWs in our community.  Thank you for your consideration!

*Please note: if we raise more than the necessary funds, we will donate the remaining funds to a nonprofit based in our city, Toledo.

COST BREAKDOWNS:
- Airplane tickets (from DTW to BDL): $1200 (round trip, includes taxes and fees)
- Hotel: $263 (two nights)
- Rental car: $102 (estimated cost is $32/day)
- Conference registration: $40