Greetings —
At the recent Box2Box “Rock Your Kicks” gala, I was honored to receive the first B2B Gratitude Award. That recognition prompted me to reflect on what we’ve accomplished together this year:
- Eleven seniors graduated, five receiving college scholarships—three funded by Spy Coast Farm in honor of Paula Hollis and two funded by David Jones in memory of Pyddney Jones.
- We launched a new dance program under Micka Ueland’s leadership.
- Eight of our boys played on the Bryan Station soccer team that advanced to the state semifinals.
- With the LSC’s help, we fielded our own club team, giving 36 students the opportunity to play club soccer at no cost.
- More than 40 students received mentoring and tutoring at our after-school program at the Dunbar Center every Tuesday and Thursday. Special thanks to Parks and Recreation and Trudy Rose for providing the space.
We’re blessed by our dedicated tutors from UK’s StepUp program, the Newman Center, and the surrounding community, especially Arthur Higgenbotham, who led our summer program.
One story fills me with particular gratitude: our student Mudege. After graduating from Box2Box and Bryan Station High School, he enlisted in the Marine Corps—a testament to the resilience and potential of those we serve.
I’m grateful for director Philip Manga and his assistant Justice Thomas, our board members, especially acting chair Will Jones and treasurer Mark Palmer, and Spy Coast Farm, whose generosity enabled us to purchase a van and host our annual fundraiser with outstanding support from Jen Zimmerman and their team.
None of this would be possible without you—our supporters, volunteers, and sponsors.
As we enter Advent and Christmas, please consider donating to help us continue serving Lexington’s immigrant and refugee children in 2025.
Gratefully overwhelmed,
Nancy Herring
