On January 21st, I will travel to Washington, D.C. to take part in the Close Up Foundation’s Washington D.C. civic education program along with students from Abraham Lincoln High School. Close Up gives students the opportunity to experience their government in action and gain the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to be engaged citizens.

This innovative educational program is run by the Close Up Foundation, the nation’s leading non-profit, non-partisan civic education organization.  Since 1971, Close Up has brought over 800,000 students and teachers from across the country to Washington, D.C. to experience firsthand the history, politics, and culture of the nation’s capital.  While on the program, students will participate in a variety of hands-on activities such as small group workshops, seminars with Washington, D.C. journalists, lobbyists, and embassy officials, and meetings with members of Congress and their staffs. Furthermore, students will learn from and debate with their peers from across the country, exposing them to differing attitudes and perspectives. 

The program cost per student is $2000, and is all-inclusive; travel expenses, academic workshops, meals, lodging, and truly, the experience of a lifetime! Because civic education is for everyone, and not just the most privileged, I hope you are able to lend a hand in making this valuable educational program available to all students, regardless of financial background.

Help me in this effort by contributing at least $200 or a providing a gift of your choice.


Your contribution would be an investment in our community’s future by helping students become active and informed citizens.

Thank you in advance for your consideration and support, and for making a positive difference in my life and our community!

Sincerely,
Gavin Li