Hi everyone,

My name is Mae, and I just turned 12 years old. I’ve been taking acting workshops with a talent agency called Seattle Talent for the past four months. I recently auditioned to attend a national acting convention in New York City called IMTA (the International Modeling and Talent Association)—and was accepted!

At this New York acting convention, I’ll spend a full week training, performing, and competing in multiple events while being seen by agents, managers, and casting directors from across the country and around the world. It’s a big, fast-paced experience with workshops, competitions, and long days that help performers grow quickly and get ready for real opportunities.

The total cost for me to attend is about $5,500 (not including flights), and here’s what that includes:

Registration & Competition Fees: $1,800

Workshops & Training: $700

Hotel (5 nights): $1,500

Photos, marketing materials & program fees: $1,000

I’m working hard to earn my way to IMTA through this fundraiser (including through accepting donations, making custom art and doing additional work) because this is something I truly care about and want to take seriously. My parents are not paying for me to attend. I can go only if I earn it.

For this reason, I’m asking for support from my friends, family, neighbors, and supporters – like you! One of the biggest ways you can help reach my goal is through the “Donate a Day until IMTA!” calendar fundraiser. If every in May, June, and July is claimed, I would raise about $2,900. That support, along with my special “Golden Dates,” cards, and sweatshirt sponsorships will help me reach my full goal. Additional ways you can help are explained below.

With your support, I’ll have the chance to learn, perform, and take a big step toward my dream of acting.

Donate a Day until IMTA!

You can “claim” a single day or multiple days in May, June or July on the calendar and donate that amount (or more if you want!). Each date is worth an amount of money. Like this:

May dates = the number of the day (May 5 = $5)

June dates = double the day (June 5 = $10)

July dates = triple the day (July 5 = $15)

There are also Golden Dates with special donation amounts (like my birthday and holidays!).

You can check the linked Google Calendar to see which dates are still available or just reach out to my mom to check available dates. Then let my mom know which date you’d like to claim, and donate that amount here on GoFundMe or through Venmo @Emily-Gillard-1.

Handmade Cards + Custom Art

With my own handmade designs, I’ll create greetings cards like birthday cards, get well cards, and more. I’m also excited to create custom art by request!

$10 for one card

$50 for a pack of 6

Custom art piece - any donation welcome!

These will be mailed out in June or July! You can donate here on GoFundMe or through Venmo @Emily-Gillard-1

Sweatshirt Supporters

If you choose this option, you can donate any amount you want, and your name will be added to a special sweatshirt that I’ll wear at IMTA in New York City.

In a way, you’ll be there with me, cheering me on! You can donate here on GoFundMe or through Venmo @Emily-Gillard-1

Thank you so much for supporting me and believing in my dream. Every donation, share, and encouraging message means so much to me. Even just a “you’ve got this” helps more than you know.

❤️ Mae