Send Maddie to Nationals for Her Performance

Help Maddie Palomares Represent Colorado at National History Day Nationals in Baltimore!

We are thrilled to share that Maddie Palomares, an 8th-grade student at Independence Academy in Grand Junction, Colorado, has been named the Colorado State Champion in the Junior Individual Performance category for National History Day (NHD)!

Her award-winning piece is a compelling original performance told from the perspectives of six characters affected by the use of eminent domain in Chavez Ravine, Los Angeles, during the 1950s–60s. It’s a deeply researched, emotional story about community, displacement, and the conflict between public good and personal rights.

What Is National History Day?

National History Day is a nationwide academic program and competition that gives students in grades 6–12 the opportunity to conduct in-depth historical research centered around an annual theme. This year’s theme was "Turning Points in History: Rights and Responsibilities."

Why We Need Your Help

Unfortunately, state-level support for National History Day has been reduced this year, so students must fundraise their own way to Nationals.

We are raising funds to help cover travel and lodging expenses for:

-Maddie

-Her guardian (required to travel with her)

Here’s a breakdown of estimated costs:

✈️ Flights from Grand Junction to Baltimore: ~$500 per person

Dorms & Meal Plan at University of Maryland: $600 per person

️ Registration: $165 for Maddie

Miscellaneous and spending money: ~$200 per person

Estimated total needed: $2,500

Your Support Means Everything

Any amount you can give will directly support a hardworking, passionate student who has earned a place on a national stage. And if we’re fortunate enough to raise more than needed, all extra funds will be donated to support future Colorado students participating in National History Day, helping keep this important program alive.

Let’s help Maddie get to Nationals and inspire the next generation of historians, storytellers, and change-makers. Thank you for your support!