November 6, 2003

Dear Sir or Madam:
Three years ago our thirty-year-old son was attacked robbed and stabbed to death while walking to his apartment in Charlotte, NC. In his memory, his family and friends have established the Christopher Maki Memorial Foundation. To date we have awarded (6) $1000 scholarships to college bound seniors as well as (8) $50 savings bonds to middle school students.

Each year in the spring, we host a 2.5mile walk around Lunenburg to promote awareness of the incidence of violence and the tragic effect it has on all the survivors. The proceeds of the walk go to the scholarships and the bonds.

Last year, students from Turkey Hill Overlook and Hawthorne Brook Middle Schools took part in Chris' Crusade. Both the students and faculty found this project rewarding and beneficial. We were greatly encouraged by the enthusiasm generated. Therefore, we are extending the invitation to include more schools this year.

We would like to ask you to consider involving your students in this project. We believe the middle age student is at a very impressionable age and that it is in their best interest to address, confront and understand these issues. Do you feel that this is a project that you, your faculty, and students would benefit from?

Enclosed please find a proposal, which outlines the objectives of the program. Also included on the proposal are suggested formats for the curriculum. Please note the ideas outlined on the proposal are simply suggestions. We would appreciate any input you may have to personalize the program for your individual school. I can be reached at the address and telephone number listed above. Please contact me at your earliest convenience
Sincerely,

Jane Maki

Striving to Achieve Peace and End Violence