Hi there. My name is Reid Petersen, and I teach Design at Samueli Academy in Santa Ana, CA. We are a public charter school that was built to support youth in foster care as well as the local community. I like to help my senior students, before they graduate, recognize and be grateful for all the assistance that they have received over the years. In addition, I hope they realize that they are also empowered to give back and that they have the power to make their community a better place, which can actually brighten people's lives.

To do this, we prepare a feast, fit for royalty, and serve it to the residents of Friendship Shelter in Laguna Beach. This facility houses about 35 men and women, giving them a safe place to live and helping them prepare to transition out of homelessness and into permanent housing.

We've done this a few times, and it is not only a self-worth building and joyful experience for the residents (last time, one woman even cried!), but it is a powerful and eye-opening experience for my students. They make personal invitations, promote the event, prepare and serve the food, and sit down to break bread with the residents. As they eat, they ask them to share their stories, recognizing the value of each individual. Upon returning to school, the students reflect upon this experience, and it is always a powerful moment, as they explain that they felt something special that they had never felt before.

We are not allowed to use school funds to provide the food for this experience. Thus, my request. Please help support these beautiful people, especially by helping these young students discover the joy of giving back and the value of kindness and generosity. You can contribute money to purchase the food and supplies needed for the handmade, uniquely designed decorations for the event. You will help set the trajectory of their lives to one of giving and unselfishness. Thank you!