Dear friends and family,
Life has thrown our family a curveball recently. Both Evan and I have unexpectedly lost our jobs. While we are actively pursuing new opportunities and are confident that this is a temporary setback, the immediate impact is causing significant stress, especially when it comes to supporting our wonderful children, Alys, Ian, and Enna.
Alys is a dedicated student at the prestigious Berklee College of Music, where she is pursuing a double major in Game and Interactive Media Scoring and Composition on a full scholarship. We are incredibly proud of her hard work and talent. Currently, while seeking part-time employment to complement her studies, she faces the reality of monthly rent ($775), along with essential travel and food expenses. We're doing all we can to support her, but the added financial strain is weighing heavily on us.
Our youngest, Enna, has her own passions blossoming! She would absolutely love the chance to try gymnastics and has also expressed a keen interest in taking a digital art class this summer, nurturing her love for drawing. We would love to provide her with these enriching experiences.
Our current financial situation has also unfortunately impacted Ian's ongoing ballet training. He has been diligently studying at Vitacca Ballet and School for Dance, but due to unpaid tuition and fees, his classes have had to be put on hold. This makes his acceptance into the prestigious summer intensives even more crucial, as it represents a vital opportunity to continue his development.
Speaking of which, Ian has received truly exceptional news! He has been accepted into two incredibly prestigious ballet summer intensives. First, he received a partial tuition scholarship to the American Ballet Theatre's Collegiate Summer Intensive for two weeks. Following that, he has been awarded a full tuition scholarship to the renowned John Cranko School Summer Intensive and International Contemporary Masters program for both of their sessions.
This means Ian has the extraordinary opportunity to live and train in New York City for seven weeks, learning from the very best teachers in the country. This is an unparalleled honor and a testament to his dedication and talent, especially considering the recent disruption to his regular training. As you can imagine, we are bursting with pride for him!
However, while his tuition is generously covered for the John Cranko program, the cost of living in NYC for seven weeks presents a significant financial hurdle. We need help to cover his living expenses, including food, transportation within the city, and other essential needs that will allow him to fully focus on this incredible training opportunity and bridge the gap caused by the pause in his local classes.
We are reaching out to our cherished community, hoping you might consider becoming a part of our "Angel Network." Any contribution, no matter the size, will make a tangible difference in helping both Alys navigate her immediate needs while pursuing her demanding studies and allowing Ian to seize this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to reignite his training and hone his remarkable talent.
We understand that times are tough for many, and we appreciate you even taking the time to read our story. If you are able to contribute, please know that we will be eternally grateful for your kindness and generosity in supporting these two amazing individuals.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
With love and gratitude,
Elissa & Evan