giving tuesday - Eliza and Mayra's story

we are so happy to be writing on this Giving Tuesday to tell you a bit more about our charitable partner, Graham Windham, and their commitment to helping children, youth, and families build a strong foundation for life by ensuring a safe, loving, permanent family and the opportunity and preparation to thrive in school and in the world.

how many of you have seen the show or read the book Hamilton?  well if you have then you actually have a little bit of the backstory on Graham Windham.  after Alexander Hamilton's death, his wife Eliza Hamilton (nee Schuyler) was left impoverished and fighting to keep her family home for herself and her children, the youngest of whom was only two years old and one of whom was a foster child. 

as a single mother to her family and widow of a man who had been orphaned himself in childhood, Eliza was passionate about the lives of children. in 1806, along with several other social activists in New York City, Eliza was one of the founders of the first private orphanage in the city, the New York Orphan Asylum Society.  she was there in 1807 when the orphanage laid its first cornerstone, and she was indefatigable in her efforts to raise money and support the society, becoming its director in 1821. she remained involved until her 90s. that organization she helped to found—Eliza’s “living legacy”—exists today as Graham Windham.

the story that prompted Eliza to start what is now Graham Windham continues this year as we visit with Mayra.

Mayra has made up her mind that even though the world may feel like it is going crazy around her, she can make the choice to remain positive and that’s what she models for her two children.

as a child in foster care who aged out of care without the necessary supports in place, Mayra has experienced times of sadness and struggle, but she has chosen hope. not just for herself, but for her own children and for the thousands of children that Graham serves.

receiving a gift during the holiday season brings joy to Graham’s children and youth and makes them feel special. today, Mayra goes above and beyond to make sure no Graham child feels forgotten like she did back then. as the Special Events and Volunteer Coordinator at Graham Windham, Mayra said, “it’s beautiful to see that there are people who care” – people willing to give their time and money for Graham’s children and families. 

join us and Mayra and make sure that Graham’s kids and families have a special gift this holiday season. 

we are so honored to be a long-term corporate partner with Graham Windham and hope that you will join us and Mayra this Giving Tuesday in supporting their efforts by using this link to donate to their #JoyDrive and help us provide 1,000 gift cards for presents, groceries, or warm winter clothes.

worthy will match all gifts generated today up to $1,000 so every gift you make today will be doubled!

as always, we are all worthy,