Help Me Get To BinderCon!

Hello there!

My name is Lauren, you may know also as LAM or L.A. I was thrilled to receive a scholarship to BinderCon. I literally jumped up and down when I received the email. Out of the Binders: Symposium on Women Writers Today (aka BinderCon) is happening October 11th and 12th in New York City. It consists of workshops, panels, and networking events that will “provide women with the tools, strategies, and connections” we need to advance our careers and positions in fields such as book publishing, journalism, and entertainment media.

I am excited to meet with writers who are established in their careers and those who, like me, are just starting out. I hope to learn a lot from the workshops and talks. I have also signed up for some speed pitches, which I am nervous, but hopeful, about. So while the scholarship is amazing (there is no way I'd be able to even contemplate attending without it!), there is still a lot more cost involved in attending.

This is where you come in.

I've tried my best to improve my financial outlook by other means, but the clock is ticking and my wallet is still empty, so here goes. Thankfully, I do have a place to stay in the city for free, so my accommodations cost is zero. Phew! I still need funds to help with travel expenses, food, and childcare during BinderCon. Without this money, I will sadly have to forfeit my scholarship and not attend.

Why does it matter?

The opportunities that could come from this event are crucial to my livelihood. It is my hope that this weekend is the starting point for many good things in my life. First and foremost, I believe this will assist me in my career and its future opportunities. I also feel the skills I will learn and people I will meet over the weekend will impact my life in only positive ways. I've overcome a lot of challenges in my life to get to this point. I am ready to forge ahead and I can only do so with your help.

Here is a breakdown of how I will use the funds raised:

• $80 Transportation (Parking at station, train into city, MetroCard while there)
• $50 Food
• $120 Child Care 
• $50 Cash & Incidentals

*Any additional funds raised will go toward the purchase of a new laptop (I’m currently borrowing my father’s) and daily living expenses.

Thank you for reading this.

If you are able to, please give what you can. Every dollar counts, and I truly mean that! I will be Tweeting and blogging about BinderCon, so you will be able to hear about the experience and how your support enabled me to experience this event. You will have my sincere gratitude.     

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About Me

I am a single mom of two awesome daughters. I am a writer, artist, and activist, amongst other things! I am about to start classes again to finish my college degree. My youngest daughter has health issues and developmental disabilities, and not having a co-parent to assist on days she is sick or has appointments (which is often), I cannot work outside the home. I've been doing small freelance gigs here and there, for writing and art, I've done virtual assistance work, and web search evaluation as well. I’m willing to do what it takes to take care of my kids and keep us afloat. While I graciously ask for you to donate, I'd also like to request if you have any interest in hiring me, please reach out. You can learn more about me through the links below. 

You Can Find Me:

LAM on the LAM 

Nerd Grrrl Island

My Twitter & Facebook links are above!