<div>Hello, I'm Raquel Colvard, an educator in Georgia since 2009 and a dedicated caregiver. Less than a year after my mother was diagnosed with lymphoma, she suffered a fall, developed dementia, and passed away. Caring for her full-time meant leaving my education job unexpectedly — but it also taught me what true, compassionate care looks like and deepened my commitment to supporting families who need safe childcare during nontraditional hours.

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<div>Atlanta has a growing number of parents who work evenings and overnight shifts, yet there are very few licensed overnight childcare options. <strong>I’m opening an in‑home overnight childcare program (6 PM–6 AM) to provide a calm, safe place for children and peace of mind for parents.</strong> My experience ranges from preschoolers to high‑school students, and I’m committed to meeting licensing and safety standards so families can trust their children with me.

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<div><strong>I am asking for $20,000 to complete the necessary steps to expand and license the program so I can care for 11 additional children.</strong> Funds will be used for:

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<li>Two special use permit applications and associated fees (to meet licensing requirements)

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<li>Backyard safety renovations: remove one dead tree and trim/remove hazardous overhanging limbs

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<li>Build a deck/patio as an additional emergency exit and safe outdoor reading/wind‑down area

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<li>Materials for safe evening play/reading area (lighting, seating, shade, soft surfacing)

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<li>Safety upgrades and incidentals to meet local code and licensing inspections

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<div>How your support helps: every dollar brings this program closer to being licensed and safe for overnight care, directly supporting working parents in underserved communities. <strong>If you can’t donate, please share this campaign link with your network — spreading the word is hugely helpful.</strong>

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<div>Thank you for believing in safe, compassionate care. I will post regular updates and personally thank donors.

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<div>Funding breakdown:

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<li>Permits &amp; application fees: $1,500

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<li>Tree removal and limb trimming: $13,000

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<li>Deck/patio construction &amp; emergency exit access: $4,000

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<li>Outdoor safety surfacing, lighting, furniture: $1,000

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<li>Misc./inspection fees: $500

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<div>Total: $20,000

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Sarita Martin

Overnight Childcare for Atlanta Families

Nog $3,331 te gaan. Help ons de vaart erin te houden.