To the Editor:anagraceproject.org] to review the work they are doing in the educational system and consider donating to support our family fun-filled FUNdraising event.

I am writing to ask for your support for the 5th Annual Dance For Ana With Love (DFAWL) FUNdraiser to be held on Saturday, April 1, at the Academy of Science and Innovation in New Britain.

The Dance For Ana With Love FUNdraiser will be filled with family fun activities centered around dance and movement in honor of Ana Grace Mérquez-Greene, one of the 20 young children murdered in the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting on December 14, 2012. Her family has described her as an angelic child who loved freely, expressed empathy for all, and loved to dance.

Over the past four years, Carla Butler, the founder of the DFAWL FUNdraising event, has used dance and a family fun day to honor Ana's memory. Her executive committee has raised more than $30,000 to date, and proceeds have benefited the Ana Grace Project. The Ana Grace Project was founded by Ana's mother, Nelba Mérquez-Greene.

Nelba Mérquez-Greene has dedicated her life to providing resources for children and families to identify early signs of mental illness and she seeks to eliminate the stigma associated with it. Carla Butler and the DFAWL executive committee are committed to supporting Nelba's mission, which is to promote love, community, and connection for every child. Monies raised from the FUNdraiser have been used to support a Mental Health Trauma Clinic and a Love Wins Family Resource Center at the Chamberlain School in New Britain. With the full endorsement of New Britain Mayor Erin Stewart and Superintendent Nancy Sarra, we hope to provide resources for ten partner schools in the city of New Britain. In addition, donated funds have been used to purchase music and dance equipment for children.

Please visit the Ana Grace Project website [

The Ana Grace Project and the Dance For Ana With Love Committee thank you for your anticipated support. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at 203-900-4ANA.

Love Wins,

Tracey Butler, Vice Chair

Dance For Ana With Love Executive Committee

2 Greenridge Avenue, White Plains, N.Y.

DFAWL, PO Box 3573, Newtown         February 27, 2017