I’ve been privileged to serve on the #MEAction Board these last three years. Though I’ve worked in Silicon Valley and seen many high-growth start-ups, #MEAction’s progress has been one of the wildest rides I’ve ever seen. I’ve been amazed at the level of grass-roots participation and growth you’ve made happen.

When I first started writing a week ago, I was planning one last appeal to you for more donations. Instead, I have the pleasure of announcing we’ve exceeded our stretch goal of $105,000!

This means, with both matching grants, we’ve raised $150,000 to fund our work!  So instead of asking you to help us cross the finish line, I have the distinct pleasure of thanking you for your donations.

I also want to thank everyone who has contributed in other ways. Hundreds of you shared Jen’s appeal on Facebook. Others of you have reached out directly to friends and family. Every little bit helped.

In the midst of this campaign, I had an email exchange with one of our super-volunteers on  the Congressional team. When I expressed my gratitude for her hard work, she emailed right back to thank me for my financial support of #MEAction and to say that she had contributed but wished she could contribute more.

“Nonsense.” I replied.  “We are both giving what we have to give.  My financial donation wouldn’t have 1/100th of the impact if it weren’t for advocates like you donating your attention, time, compassion, ideas…learning, pushing ahead, never taking no, or the status quo, for an answer, bringing along new volunteers…working at times when I am sure you have more ways to spend your precious energy.” I mean that to each and every one of you.

To the 1200+ people who donated to our Indiegogo campaign, you rock!  It is a pleasure building this movement with you.

To your health.

Pam Laird for the board and staff of #MEAction