Dear Friend,

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Thank you so much for taking the time to learn about Footprints! Footprints is a unique organization dedicated to supporting youth on their journey to self-discovery by bridging the financial gap that often prevents participation in extracurricular programs. We recognize that growing into adolescence can be challenging, but we believe that providing more opportunities for positive programs and activities gives our youth a better chance of developing into talented, productive, and fulfilled young adults.

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Over the last decade, I have planned community events, generated support, and fundraised for both statewide and globally recognized nonprofit organizations. My professional experience includes event management, program development, and fundraising for The Early Learning Coalition of Brevard County, The Salvation Army Memphis Area Command, Special Olympics Georgia, the American Heart Association, The Boyce L. Ansley School, and Westside Future Fund. After graduating from Bethune-Cookman University (2013) with a Bachelor's Degree in Mass Communications and the University of Central Florida with a Master's Degree in Nonprofit Management (2016), I dedicated my career to standing in the gap and advocating for children.

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I believe that the adolescent and teenage years are critical and deserve focused attention. Footprints was founded to ensure that every possible opportunity is available to our youth, helping them create their own unique footprints in life.

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Changing lives one footprint at a time,

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Mariel Hicks

CEO and Founder of Footprints

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