Amanda Troxler, one of my dearest friends, was informed today that she will be furloughed effective tomorrow at midnight as a result of the federal shutdown of USAID. After 28 years of service at a non-profit organization dedicated to improving lives around the world, she is now abruptly and inconceivably without income, effective immediately.

Amanda and I worked together for many years and became inseparable friends almost immediately in our 20s. She is a fiercely loyal friend, an amazing mom, a community volunteer, a strong woman, and a single parent who has dedicated her career, and much of her life, to serving populations in need. She was among the most dedicated colleagues with whom I have ever worked, and for whom ethics and responsible fiscal management guided every day, week, month, and year of her service.

Regardless of your politics, I am asking that you give what you can, no matter how small, to support Amanda during this time while she adjusts to the shocking loss of a 28-year career and tries to urgently identify new employment.

Thank you,

Jen Deese