My name is Jeffery Blake and I have been volunteering my time coaching with the Express All Star Program here in Grand Junction, Colorado for the past year.  As a veteran in the Marine Corps, I must say I have never seen a group of athletes more dedicated, passionate and sacrifice so much to obtain their ultimate goal, a chance to represent the United States at the 2015 Dance Worlds. After competing nationally in Kentucky and Texas, they won a national championship and have been consistently ranked at the top in all their routines. As proof of their dedication and commitment, the lady athletes of Spirit Express have received not one, but three World Bids in jazz, hip-hop and pom, a very rare accomplishment that has not been achieved by any other US team this season.
 
Express All Stars is a small gym in a working class community and does not have the resources (specifically finances) that the majority of the larger teams we compete against. We are seeking to fundraise 25K to cover traveling expenses, accommodations and meals for the 16 athletes competing in the championships.  Spirit Express is a group of young ladies that are not only talented on the dance floor, but have strong morals and values, are drug free and have maintained their high academic standards boasting a team grade point average of 3.8. They have also given over 500 hours of community service during their season to several charitable organizations such as the March of Dimes, Latimer House, The House, JUCO and the Catholic Outreach Program to name a few, all while maintaining their rigorous training schedule. This is truly a group of remarkable young ladies.
 
I will not let finances be the deterrent preventing these amazing athletes from representing the USA at the World Championships in Orlando on April 25th. I am a firm believer in asking for help when you need it. We have a short window to raise funds and we need your help and would appreciate any contribution you can make at this time!