Hello, KidWorks supporter! It’s still a couple of months away, but KidWorks is busy planning a fabulous summer 2018 for the thousands of students you help us serve. Oscar Mateo’s story is one of many we are delighted to share over the coming weeks. At the end of this story, you can learn how YOU can make summer 2018 shine bright for students like Oscar.

Who would have thought a fun day at the beach would help me decide on a career!

But that’s exactly what happened last year when KidWorks treated me and a few dozen other youth to a day of learning and fun on the sand at the beach. We did all the things you’d expect—made sand castles, took surfing lessons and tossed around a Frisbee.

But while exploring the tide pools, we also got a lesson about the importance of protecting our oceans and the life within. That’s when I began thinking to myself, “I might want to become a marine biologist.” Now I am passionate about everything related to the ocean.

You probably don't realize the impact that KidWorks summer has on my life. As a high school student, KidWorks’ summer programs have really made those months when school is out more meaningful for me than ever before. Instead of sitting around the house watching TV, my summer is packed with three months of keeping on track academically, making new friends, career field trips, and fun. Trying new things has helped me build confidence with both my peers and adults.

But KidWorks can’t make summer programs possible without financial support from friends like you. I know it’s only April, but your gift now will let me and hundreds of other children and youth attend KidWorks summer programs and camp.

Here’s how:

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