BARACK OBAMA said:"Thank you for an incredible 2019"

Hi there, There’s something invigorating about the new year—the fresh start, the opportunity to take up something new, the possibility of what’s ahead. As Michelle and I reflect on the last year and look toward the next one, we’re encouraged by the stories of progress that came from 2019. If you haven’t already, I encourage you to take a look at the work of the Foundation over the past year. The stories of compassion, resilience, and connection couldn’t be more energizing. Start with our Year in Photos—a collection of images from 2019 that showcase the incredible work that your support has made possible. It’s because of your commitment that we can invest in emerging leaders and amplify the impact they’re already making. It’s because of you that we can highlight and support the community leaders of today—and help them become the global leaders of tomorrow. And it’s because of you that we’re bringing the Obama Presidential Center to life. I want to thank you for every ounce of energy, passion, and guidance you bring to our mission. Thank you for sharing our voice and vision for a better tomorrow. And thank you for making 2019 an incredible year. But I have one more ask of you. On a day of fresh starts and new beginnings, I challenge you to take a step toward change in your community. If everyone reading this can commit to one positive change for their neighborhood in 2020, our collective impact will be extraordinary. Even if we don’t always feel it ourselves, I know that we’ll keep making the world a little bit better in the next year and in the many, many years to come. Here’s to another year full of hope, —Barack Donate to empower rising leaders bringing hope to their communities. DONATE Hi there,   One of our highlights of the year was launching our Community Collections Gathering events, with a kick-off event here on the South Side of Chicago. We followed this with a road trip to Iowa, connecting with dedicated Obama campaign alumni in North Liberty, Mason City, and Des Moines. In each location, we saw hope undiminished—volunteers who drove from two hours away to share their #ObamaKeepsakes and supporters who still teared up thinking about the President. Many of the stories and artifacts they shared will become part of our founding museum collection—and they’re empowering and uplifting in equal measure.   Take a closer look at this remarkable photo—and check out the other beautiful moments that make up the Obama Foundation's Year in 44 Photos. Scroll through these photos and you’ll see changemakers join hands in the warm glow of the setting Honolulu sun. You’ll come back to Chicago and see communities cleaning up beaches and reclaiming their neighborhoods. And all along the way, you’ll nearly be able to feel every hug and hear every laugh from people meeting, listening, and working alongside President and Mrs. Obama. Thank you for making all of these moments possible. It’s your support that powers our work with the community leaders of today—and helps us build new spaces to connect them, like the Obama Presidential Center. And if you’d like to hear more about our time in Iowa, please read this post chronicling our inspiring visit. ​​​​​​ We couldn’t do it without you, Thanks, —Louise     Your tax-deductible contribution makes this work possible. DONATE