We are raising funds for Project 1841, a group of local teens in Broward County including Amanda Bilsky, Samantha Shortz, Martina Velez, and Graciela Wilson. Together, we support foster teens who are aging out of the Broward County foster care system and stepping into independence, often with very little of their own.

Project 1841 began in 2008 after four students read about an 18-year-old leaving foster care and moving into an empty apartment with all of their belongings packed in a plastic trash bag. That story stayed with them, and they chose to take action by creating Project 1841. Since then, the project has continued through eight generations of student volunteers and has delivered more than 1,000 starter kits to teens beginning this major life transition.

Today, the need is still very real. The funds from this fundraiser will go directly toward purchasing items for these starter kits, including pillows, bedding, towels, toiletries, cleaning supplies, and key essentials. These are simple essentials, but they can make a young person feel seen, supported, and more prepared for life on their own.

We invite you to join us in supporting Broward County’s foster teens through Project 1841. Every donation helps us continue this mission and provide comfort, dignity, and practical support to young people who deserve a stronger start.