As 2024 draws to a close, I am awestruck by the effect of your support on Impact Now and the NYOTA Leadership Program.
When I started to write this letter, the song “Ripple” from Spirited, (my favorite Christmas movie) came to mind. The song is about how small actions, like tossing a single pebble into a pond, can create waves that reach far and wide.
This year, we tossed a pretty big pebble with the launch of the NYOTA Leadership Program. All 24 women of this first cohort who started the program not only faithfully attended every Saturday session, but finished the program. And they are asking for more! These powerhouse women have expanded their knowledge and skills and grown in confidence. They are already making waves in their workplaces and communities.
We celebrated graduation of this first NYOTA cohort on December 14. It was a joyful event with friends, family, university, and civic leaders. It was a day filled with pride, hope, dancing, and a few happy tears. If you missed the party, you can still catch highlights here and here.
The ripples didn’t stop with graduation. Just last week, eight NYOTA graduates visited women in the local prison. They brought Christmas gifts and words of encouragement. They offered hope.
Another ripple effect: Their actions caught the interest of local news media.
We’re gearing up to make more waves. A new NYOTA cohort will launch by March 2025. We’re excited to meet this next group of women and join them on their leadership journey.
One final note: our Giving Tuesday campaign was a success. Thanks to individuals committed to this work, we exceeded our $3500 fundraising goal.
Thank you for your part in making waves this year. Whether you’ve thrown pebbles by donating, sharing news about NYOTA, or cheering from the sidelines, you’ve played an essential role.
As we step into 2025, please help Impact Now and NYOTA keep the momentum going by reading, sharing updates, and praying for the women and for this program. Together, we can transform ripples into waves of change.
There’s yet another way you can contribute to the ripple effect: Become a monthly donor. A monthly donation amplifies your impact and keeps the ripples flowing.