Hi friends:)

This year for my birthday I am asking you to contribute my FUNdraiser! As many of you may or may not know, I am a very proud and enthusiastic IGNITE alum and would like to dedicate my birthday to them this year. IGNITE has changed my life in ways I would've never guessed possible. They have time after time supported me both personally and professionally and taught me to never underestimate my own abilities.

When I first joined IGNITE in 2017, I saw it as an opportunity get to know the women who would run for office in the future. It wasn’t until my internship with IGNITE that I learned I had political power within myself and could be one of those women that I looked up to.

It was through IGNITE that I found the courage to run for office on my university campus, where I became the first Latina to serve as Speaker of the Senate. IGNITE taught me how to become the leader that I wanted to see while giving me the confidence I needed to pursue this leadership role. I created policies on my university that were led with the thought of helping nontraditional and working class students. IGNITE's mission of empowering women resonated with me deeply and taught me to identify women who also needed to be leading movements. As a result, I've worked with various political and civic nonprofits, grassroots movements, candidates, and elected officials to influence policy at all levels of government.

Now years later, I find myself on a career path that I otherwise would've never been able to imagine myself on. IGNITE not only gave me these skills but also an amazing network of supporters who have encouraged me every day. I know first hand that IGNITE is changing lives for young women across the country and that's why I've dedicated my 25th to their work. :)

Please take a second to consider making a donation to this organization. Their work is essential now more than ever. IGNITE has grown a movement of young girls and women who are eager to lead. Your donation will go directly to helping IGNITE reach those young girls and women. :)

Thanks,
Ceci

Ceci's Birthday FUNdraiser for IGNITE!

By Cecilia Silva

Ceci's Birthday FUNdraiser for IGNITE!