The Sega Girls School - 2010 Dear Nurturing Minds Friends, Nurturing Minds has just signed a grant agreement with US Agency for International Development/American Schools and Hospitals Abroad (USAID/ASHA) which provides a  2:1 match on funds we raise over the next year, up to $400,000.  In other words as long as Nurturing Minds can raise $200,000, USAID will give us an additional $400,000 earmarked for construction! The significance of this grant cannot be understated.  The grant: ·        Will allow us to accomplish our construction goals more quickly, thereby enabling us to use any additional funds (outside the $200,000 we need to raise for the match) towards funding business start-up for school sustainability ·        Reflects that a donor with as rigorous selection processes as USAID values our cause and has found us to be a credible, sound institution worthy of support This grant is seldom, if ever, provided to organizations with an all-volunteer base such as Nurturing Minds. It is thanks to the expansive and consistent support from you, our donors and committed and competent volunteers, which convinced USAID that in this case, a volunteer-based organization has what it takes to successfully implement a grant of this scale.  Now we have to show them that we can raise the match, and exceed their expectations. The funds will be used to build three dormitories, one classroom building, a staff house, and volunteer house in 2010-2011, enabling us to accommodate up to 120 students by 2012.   I know you will do all you can to help us raise the matching funds, and continue to support poor, bright Tanzanian girls to get a quality education.   Thank you for being part of our team, and we expect that this gives you plenty of time to plan your 2012 trip to Tanzania for the USAID Sega Girls School new buildings dedication! Sincerely,   Polly Dolan, Founder Tracey Dolan, NM President Clarke Blynn, NM Chair