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There is no question that we are living through historic and challenging times. COVID-19 has turned our lives upside down and has amplified entrenched inequalities in our communities. This has been a difficult, scary and isolating time. And yet we refuse to lose hope. Even as our Pantry Packs weekend food program faced supply challenges, our volunteers seamlessly shifted their operations to meet the increased needs for packs - from 940 per week to over 1,300. With children and caregivers facing increased mental health challenges, our Balance in Mind team began providing virtual Parent Chats and "Real Talk" for teens that provide education and support for youth mental wellness. Thankfully, our donors, both individuals and companies, have stepped in to ensure that our programs have the financial resources necessary to serve all who need support. (Please see our Donor Spotlight below about two LWSD teens who decided to make a difference.) And importantly, I am proud to share that the Lake Washington Schools Foundation stands in solidarity with the Black community. Our Board of Trustees has voted to support and adopt LWSD's statement on racial equity. Please click here to learn more. Even though the school year has come to a close, our work at the Foundation will continue. I encourage you to read below about the support, information and programs that we are offering to students and families over the summer. Please join us in working together toward a future where, despite loss or obstacles, we create opportunity for ALL. We are here for ALL of you. Stay healthy and be well, Katy Philips Interim Executive Director Stay tuned for upcoming Parent Chats and Real Talk for Teens!  The Balance in Mind team is working on new topics to support youth mental health over the summer. In the meantime, enjoy recent Parent Chats here, including Supporting LGBTQ Teens, Cultivating Kindness During Hard Times, Is it Stress, Distress, or Anxiety and more! Also, be sure to check out their Instagram page @bimteens which supports teens and parents through "Real Talk", weekly challenges, humor and inspiration! Join Find Your Fit for two upcoming college-prep webinars!  WHAT: Helping Your Teen Navigate the College Process with independent educational consultant Mary Pat O'Neil and guest speaker, licensed therapist who specializes in integrative mental health at SageMED, Marrie Ketchum. WHEN: Tuesday, July 14 from 7pm-8pm WHO: Parents/Guardians WHAT: Do You Have to Choose a College Major When You Apply to College with Mary Pat O'Neil and guest representatives from the University of Washington and Gonzaga University. WHEN: Thursday, July 16 from 1pm-2pm WHO: Parents/Guardians and high school students Webinars are free to attend, $5 suggested donation is appreciated. 100% proceeds go to LWSF. Kids Coming Together introduces new time for virtual games! Kids Coming Together (KCT) helps kids grades 3-8 make new friends through events facilitated by high school leaders. With the limitations of meeting friends in person, KCT has transitioned their events to a virtual format, hosting virtual games on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 10:30am. Events are open to all kids but KCT extends a warm welcome to kids who could use a new friend or kids who want to BE a new friend. KCT also welcomes those who are new to the area, those that are shy, or those with Asperger's, ADHD or social anxiety. Teens Making a Difference in the Community During COVID-19 Pandemic
LWSD students and sisters, Vanesha and Varshini co-founded a nonprofit initiative called Joys of Giving which was established to bring hope, opportunity and resources to those in need.
When COVID-19 struck our community, they saw the need to raise funds to provide food, mental health support, and educational opportunities. They learned that the Lake Washington Schools Foundation would become the perfect fit and have directed $2,000 to support the LWSD community! Comments are closed.
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