Hi friends and family of Iris! Last month Iris auditioned for and was accepted to the Long Beach Ballet Summer Intensive that takes place June-July. While I am more than a little nervous about putting my kid on a plane and sending her off to California by herself, I am really really proud of her. She faced some pretty ridiculous road blocks that she made it around with grace and determination. She applied for and received a scholarship that will cover about a third of the cost of room and board. She is now trying to raise money to cover some of the costs of travel and supplies ($$ pointe shoes, etc. $$) Anything extra would also allow her to participate in part of the summer program at her home school here in Olympia when she gets back. This is a totally low-pressure gofundme! If you would normally send Iris a gift for her birthday or a holiday, maybe this year you could donate here instead? We just thought this would be the best way to get the word out to everyone all at once. Thanks so much!

From Iris:

Hi!  I auditioned for the Long Beach Ballet Summer Intensive in February and received word that I was accepted into the program shortly thereafter. I am very great-full for this amazing opportunity. While at the summer intensive I hope to develop my technique and just have fun. With your donations I will be paying for tuition and expenses for the program. This would be a great birthday or Christmas present if you were already planning on giving me one. But any donation would be greatly appreciated!