I arrived at my junior year in college with not enough money to make it through the year.

I met with the Director of Financial Aid to ask her help in finding a job. The amount I needed to earn was substantial. She didn't think there would be time for studying if I were working all the time.

Unexpectedly, she picked up the phone and dialed a number. She spoke very quietly, explaining my situation. I heard her say, "I have a student sitting here in my office who needs significant help with her tuition and room-and-board for the year." She gave the amount I needed.

She smiled and nodded, saying, "Thank you very much."

The anonymous woman at the other end of the phone line dropped a check in the mail. It covered my significant shortfall in tuition and room-and-board.

She didn't want any thanks. She didn't need to know anything about me, other than the fact that I was in need. Hers was the satisfaction of providing financial resources so one more young woman could be educated.

My gratitude is enormous. I express my thanks by emulating her as best I can. Eventhough I have never had anything approaching her financial resources, I donate as I can. Even during financially difficult years.

One organization that has priority in my donation budget is the Polly Klaas® Foundation. I want families to receive hopeful child safety information--so their children can have the power to recognize dangerous situations and respond appropriately. I want missing children found.

This hope-filled child safety work requires a lot of people making donations. Everyone donating what they can. Some people may want to organize fundraisers, give house parties, or send emails to their friends requesting donations.

Making a donation today would be a great start. You can do that by clicking on the donation link below.