My Brother’s Workshop, a non-profit organization committed to transforming the lives of at-risk and high-risk youth in the U.S. Virgin Islands, has launched a critical fundraising campaign, Double the Hope, in response to a recent 50% cut in U.S.V.I. Government grant funding.
The campaign features a matching gift opportunity thanks to the generosity of the Anasetti Family, who have pledged to match all donations made through August 30th, up to $25,000. Every dollar contributed during this time will go twice as far to support MBW’s holistic programming, which includes education, mentorship, mental health counseling, paid on-the-job training, and job placement.
“This funding cut couldn’t come at a worse time,” said Chrystie Payne, MBW Program Director. “We’re seeing a surge in violence and need in our community. Our trainees rely on MBW to provide a safe space, stability, and a pathway to a better life. With this match, our supporters have an incredible opportunity to double their impact.”
MBW depends on public funding and the generosity of private donors to offer paid on-the-job training and holistic wrap-around support services to its trainees. MBW has expanded its reach through the new MBW campus that was built through community support and a $5 million ARPA, which was designated exclusively for construction and has already been spent. None of that funding was available for daily operations or program delivery.
“Many of our young people come to MBW with little to no support system. Through our programs, they find community, purpose, and the tools they need to rewrite their story,” said Jenny Hawkes, MBW Executive Director. “This match campaign gives our community a chance to step in and say, ‘We believe in their potential.’”
Founded in 2007 with just four students, MBW now serves approximately 100 young people annually, and has the capacity to reach more than 200 with sufficient support. According to federal data, intervention programs like MBW can save communities millions of dollars per individual by reducing crime, poverty, and unemployment.
To learn more, visit www.mybrothersworkshop.org or contact communications@mybrothersworkshop.org. To donate, please click on the following hyperlink: Double the Hope campaign. Every gift, share, like, and comment helps us continue to provide hope, faith, and purpose to young people in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
