It has been a big year of change for these young women in Liberia. Most of them aged out of the program where I met them, and it was through the donations of many of you that allowed them to continue working with Hilltop Schools. Last year, this scholarship fund raised nearly $5,000 which helped provide entrance fees, a monthly stipend, and transportation costs for 5 young women to continue their educations. It also provided a safety net for the inevitable emergencies that arose, and let them breathe a little easier. It would have been so easy for Hilltop to say "You've aged out" and stop providing help to them. But they have continued to support these young ladies, and I am so grateful for their commitment to them. As you will read from many of them, Hilltop (and many of you!) stepped in when their families could not - and that is something each of them has an immense amount of gratitude for. This year, 5 more students joined the ranks as high school graduates. I wish I could express how big of a deal that is, so for context, Liberia averages around a 14% completion rate for high school students. Even with loss - the death of parents, children, a house fire, sickness, etc. - they rose above the challenges and are chasing their University degrees. In January, I had a chance to catch up with them in Liberia. Sitting in a small room on a hot dry season day, I asked each of them to give me an update about how it has been since we last saw each other. The list of hardships they've faced was long - but the list of gratitude was even longer. Every single one of them said, "Please thank your family and friends for supporting us in our lives." After two hours of sharing their accomplishments and fears, I left them with hugs until the next time and a very full heart. This year, I am creating an ambitious goal of raising $7,500 so some of them can attend college, others can attend a trade school, and for Hilltop to continue to provide a monthly stipend. Even though they've never met most of you, they often talk about your generosity towards them. If you are in a place where you are able to give, know that your contribution is truly making a difference. They never cease to amaze me and I can't wait to see what they do this year. With the sincerest gratitude, Amanda
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