Hi friends and family!

I have the honor of being invited to be part of the Chocolate University 2027 class with Askinosie Chocolate Company.

For those who don't know, Askinosie Chocolate in Springfield Missouri sources their cocoa beans from several countries. One of those countries is Tanzania. The team at Askinosie travels to those farms, to work directly with the farmers. They inspect the beans together and read profit sharing reports. The goal being a totally transparent, mutually-beneficial partnership. Each year, the Askinosie team chooses a handful of local high school students - in partnership with Drury University - to travel with them. Students get a chance to learn about international business and trade and artisan chocolate making.

This is such a beautiful opportunity for students who want to study international business or finance. Not only that, but they make this trip extremely affordable to ensure that this opportunity is accessible to anyone selected. I want to be sure I can cover the cost of my passport, visa and insurance, which I think I can easily do with just a little help.

So here is what I am asking ... let me make dessert for you! From now through January, I will be baking pumpkin pies, sugar cookies and chocolate cocoa cookies. If you are able to donate any amount at all to help me with these expenses, I will bake and deliver the dessert of your choice, right to your door!