PODER Learning Center empowers Spanish-speaking adult immigrants to integrate by offering its students three key pillars of support: English (ESL), civic education, and job training programs. Through its innovative social enterprise off-shoot, Oprima-1, unemployed (and under-employed) individuals are hired as part of a work-study program where they take English classes in the morning and work as paid bilingual customer service representatives in the afternoon. After graduation, 100% of students are placed in high-quality, full-time jobs and are on a clear a path to economic independence. Sarah has been involved with PODER Learning Center, a nonprofit in Chicago's Pilsen neighborhood, since 2012. After having the opportunity to spend a few months getting to know Oprima-1 students in the classroom, she saw a group of shy women with limited marketable skills transform in front of her eyes. Not only did they gain English language and job skills, but more importantly, confidence in their ability to succeed in society. Sarah and Aaron would love to continue supporting PODER's work in empowering a population that is typically excluded from traditional education and employment opportunities. Donations can be made via PODER's website: www.poderworks.org.

Cinnamon Gold, please.

Aaron's Grandmother Janet was a long-time advocate for students with learning disabilities and their families. She was a prolific author on the topic and educated school personnel and policy makers about the needs of students with learning disabilities. She was an active member of LDAI. Grandma Janet will be greatly missed at our wedding. We are starting a Janet Lerner Memorial Membership Scholarship fund. This will be a continual reminder to all of us about her long time advocacy and caring for individuals with learning disabilities. If you want to make a contribution to fund a parent membership or memberships in Janet’s name, send your contribution to the LDA of Illinois office, 10101 South Roberts Road, Suite 205, Palos Hills, Illinois 60465-1556.

Blue, please.

Family members and friends have reminded us about the importance of going on date nights. A babysitting fund will help make that goal a little easier. You can submit through this registry, bring an envelope to the wedding, or submit a check to 17 Webster Ridge, Shelburne, VT, 05482

Aubergine color, please

Any color