My birthday is right around the corner, May 8th to be exact, and there’s no better way to celebrate than by uplifting two incredible organizations doing powerful work with youth in their respective communities.

Project Lighten Up (Asheville, NC) continues to make a meaningful impact in the Shiloh Community at Rock Hill Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Spencer Hardaway.

The Project Lighten Up Academy ( PLUA) provides year-round afterschool programing, with support from Mars Hill Bonner Scholars. Project Lighten Up Academy is a structured environment where students strengthen their academic skills and grow personally.

The Project Lighten Up Summer Camp focuses on addressing summer learning loss through a blend of academics, art, and recreation. The program keeps youth engaged, learning, and inspired during school breaks.

Project SunWave (PSW), located in Lamberts Bay, South Africa, is transforming lives through ocean therapy, teaching essential life skills while connecting youth to the water. To date, 450 children have completed a drown-proof certification program.

PSW operates five programs, including daily afterschool and Saturday academic support using Cambridge learning, along with full-day programming during school breaks that features SUP surfing, ocean therapy, swimming, and water safety.

If you’re looking for a way to celebrate with me, take a moment to learn about, support, or share these amazing initiatives. Investing in our youth is always worth it.

Lauralee 6th Annual Birthday Celebration Benefiting Project Sunwave & Project Lighten Up

Join us in celebrating Lauralee's 63rd year around the Sun