For Michael's 13th birthday, he is helping to raise funds for the Boston to Belfast Youth Empowerment Program. Michael is one of 8 Parkway Youth Hockey and 8 Dorchester Youth Hockey players who will have the opportunity to participate in this innovative youth leadership development and cultural exchange program for hockey-playing Boston boys and girls aged 13-15. Founded in 2016, the Boston to Belfast Youth Empowerment Program utilizes the power of sports to bring disparate groups of people together, and instill leadership skills, civic engagement, cross-cultural awareness, community service, friendship and respect between and among urban Boston and Belfast teens. In addition to impactful team-building, educational, leadership and life skills trainings, Boston youth travel on a weeklong cultural excursion to Belfast, capped off by exhibition hockey matches with Belfast peers during the annual Friendship Four US college hockey tournament. Collectively the team must raise $25,000 through personal donations, sponsorships and event fundraising. Will you consider making a donation to help Michael achieve his personal goal of $500. Thank you in advance for your generosity and support!