Ahhhhh Seattle! I had never been before and was very much looking forward to this opportunity to FINALLY meet Patty, Stu, and Katy Spencer as well as many of their friends, whom they have rallied to support TFFT over the years. I love that my job allows me to work with TFFT supporters all over the globe, but it’s always so much better to actually MEET face to face!!

The Spencers have been involved with TFFT since 2010 when they traveled to Tanzania for a safari. You may remember reading about the incredible holiday candy sale that they host at their home every December. Patty labors for weeks with the assistance of her daughter Katy and a few other high school volunteers to make, package, and sell the candy. Patty and Stu have said that they could make one donation to TFFT instead of the huge amount of time and energy (and money too since they themselves donate all the materials) that they invest in this sale; however, for them the process is as much about sharing TFFT’s story and spreading the word as it is about the donations.

Family and friends from all over order candy and come to their home to learn more about TFFT’s work. A few of the TFFT scholars are even sponsored by Seattle families that learned about TFFT through the Spencers!

This June Patty and Stu are joining us for RIDETZ. As part of their fundraising efforts, they planned to host a party at their home. When I heard about the plans for the event, I knew the time was right to make the trip to Seattle! After all these years of advocating and fundraising for TFFT, it was time for me to make an in-person visit.

Attending the event and having the chance to thank our Seattle TFFT community in person was the perfect opportunity.

I arrived in Seattle late (super late–sorry Patty and Stu!!!) on Saturday evening, and the Spencers greeted me at the airport with open arms. From there we spent three amazing, SUNNY days together in Seattle. They were the best hosts imaginable, showing me the city, cooking delicious meals, and even taking me out on a bike ride.

When it was time for the big event, we spent the day in their home preparing everything. Their care, attention to detail, and team work really struck me. In fact, I started my presentation on Sunday night saying that through the preparation for the event I witnessed family at its best:

• Family is working together.
• Family is supporting one another.
• Family is music on a Sunday afternoon preparing a feast for friends.

FAMILY is what so many children in this world lack and so badly need.

I went on to describe TFFT’s belief in the power of education and passionate commitment to our scholars.

What was special was that I was talking to a room full of people who were already part of the TFFT family. They were there because they have already supported the candy sales and/or the Spencers’ RIDETZ fundraising.

This was my opportunity to help them better understand the organization of which they were already a part!

To say the event was a success is an understatement. Seattle’s generosity blew me away. Everyone wanted to learn more, give more, and find more ways to be involved. It was thrilling and energizing to see people really grasp what TFFT is all about and to care so deeply.

Let’s just say, TFFT won the lottery when the Spencers happened to learn about our work when they were connected with Meghann after their safari! We love the Spencers and the Seattle TFFT community, and I can’t wait to have their family back in Tanzania this summer!

ASANTE SANA!