Dear Friends and Colleagues,

As I approach another birthday at the end of January, I have been reflecting on the opportunities that I have been given, opportunities that would not have been available to me if I had not graduated from college. What I learned -- and, more importantly, how I learned -- prepared me for a future that is as big and bright as I choose to make it.

It is for this reason, from this position of gratitude, that I am a strong proponent of education. As a graduate of a historically black college, I am particularly passionate about the United Negro College Fund. UNCF is the nation's largest and most effective minority education organization. They provide operating funds for historically black colleges and universities as well as scholarships and internships for students at about 900 institutions.

I believe that every child has a right to pursue his or her dreams for success, just as I did at Tuskegee University through the legacy of Booker T. Washington. Whatever a person's dreams may entail, a college education will make them richer. So I ask you to please join me in support of UNCF as they continue to raise funds for the best and brightest among us.

Please make a gift below and help support these young people. There is no better time than the present to start re-shaping the future.

Sincerely,

Clifford A. Bailey
professional speaker, change agent
CEO of TechSoft Systems, Inc.
re-S.H.A.P.E. the future
www.cliffordabailey.com