Hi Friends and Family,

I am partnering with Capoeira Arts Foundation to raise money for our capoeira academy in Berkeley, California. The school is a community arts center that hosts all kinds of cultural and community events, from capoeira to dance classes of all kinds, enrichment camps for kids, Brazilian arts festivals, and music events where people can come together. People come from all over the world to visit the space.

Capoeira has been a huge part of my life for the past nine years. This academy holds such a special place in my heart and the work of the Capoeira Arts Foundation benefits the community immeasurably. I first realized what an extraordinary place this was when one of the students in our community, a young woman, passed away suddenly. The academy held a vigil and celebration for her life, with candles and music, and a place to come together. Her photo has remained over the doorway ever since and every year she has gotten her new belt along with her class of students. There is no other place like this, that I have encountered in my life, in this country, that is dedicated to fostering community, to teaching us to support one another, to know one another, and to listen to one another.

Please help me raise money for the Capoeira Arts Foundation on July 14 when I will participate in a Roda-thon, an event involving playing games of capoeira, like a walk-a-thon. You can donate by hitting “Give Now” on the upper right.

You can give with any major credit card and it only takes 30 seconds. I appreciate it so very much.

Thank you for joining me!