The purpose of our non-profit is to raise money for NYC public high school students that need funds for extraordinary things that can enrich their young academic experience.
This is *Michael’s story and his extraordinary thing is to Study Abroad in Florence, Italy.
‘Ms., I remember when I auditioned for this school. It was my dream to get into Fashion and when I got the acceptance letter, I was so happy. I knew that I was going to feel safe because there was no other school that makes kids like me feel like they are at home.’ – Michael 2014
Michael is a Senior today and on his way to graduating after four roller-coaster years at Fashion High.
Michael is bright, joyous, generous, curious, larger than life and he reminds me of me when I was a student at Fashion. The larger than life kid, with a smile, laugh and body to match, the only difference is that unlike him, my size affected me while Michael is blind to what society’s definition of beauty in the world of FASHION.
‘It’s all good Ms., Not everyone can be a baddie like me!’ – Michael 2019
Truth is Michael’s physique doesn’t stop him. He is the captain of the step team and he commands it like a true captain. You can hear the stomps booming from the student cafeteria.
‘Five, Six, Seven, Eight! Clap! Clap! Stomp! Clap! Stomp!’
To see the team fall in line and follow harmoniously is more than impressive. Michael has dedicated his time and energy to making sure his team makes Fashion proud.
Aside from extracurricular activities, there’s is the reason why he auditioned, Fashion Design. His drive has earned him a spot in the Seniors Fashion Honors class and this culminating year was when his accomplishments have not gone unnoticed.
Truth is that despite his positive energy, his smile, his passion, Michael has been living with his partner and his partner’s family. His own family strains have obligated him to move out and experience the weight of the world prematurely. This is the major reason why we at PoOFA want to make his extraordinary thing happen.
‘Studying abroad has always been one of my dreams’ – Michael 2019
let’s make this happen for him.
*name has been changed to protect the identity of a minor