But the more I reflected, the more I realized that I wanted to do something that would help people too. So I did a little bit of digging and, with the help of Chicago Magazine's list of Gold Standard Charities as well as the ratings on Charity Navigator, I finally came up with the following two that had the goals that I was looking for as well as amazing track records to match:


$500: PAWS Chicago (http://www.pawschicago.org/)

PAWS Chicago is Chicago's largest No Kill humane organization, working to build a No Kill community as well as to end the overpopulation of homeless animals and improve overall animal welfare. In 2013, 91% of its budget was spent on programs. PAWS Chicago admitted 5976 cats and dogs, and adopted out 5872 of them.


$500: Greater Chicago Food Depository (http://www.chicagosfoodbank.org/)

The Greater Chicago Food Depository provides food for hungry people and works to end hunger in the community. It operates across Cook County through 650 pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, mobile programs, children’s programs, older adult programs and other innovative responses that address the root causes of hunger. Last year, the Food Depository distributed 67 million pounds of shelf-stable food, fresh produce, dairy products and meat. This is the equivalent of 154,000 meals a day. In 2013, 93.3% of their resources went towards food bank operations. In addition, since this donation is made as a year-end donation before December 31st, it will be matched dollar-for-dollar, making it donation even more impactful.

Kevin, Judy, Chris & Stephen

It is our sincere hope that these collective donations will continue to fulfill Laurie’s charge to “live a little larger” to fill the space Austin left behind. It is so wonderful to know that his impact on the world around him continues.

Phoenix Symphony - $125
Children's Museum of Phoenix - $125
McDowell Sonoran Conservancy - $125
Arizona Science Center - $125

"We are trying to step up game on the national level by attending this year's youth bike summit, which is an conference that we have never been able to attend.  We were just putting together a budget, and a donation that specifically states that this is meant to be used to attend the 2015 Youth Bike Summit (this year is in Seattle) this February would guarantee that we'd all be able to attend.  If you feel that's worthy of your donation, please send a check (with a note specifying the intended use) to Blackstone Bicycle Works, 6100 S Blackstone Ave. 60637 or online at experimentalstation.org/donate". 

Jeremy S.

I've also made my decision for Austin's 12 days of Christmas. I would like to give $500 dollars to the California Academy of Sciences. This is one of the most amazing museums I've ever been to, and I want to contribute to an organization that educates the public and encourages younger visitors to pursue their interests in science. I think Austin would want to extend his passion onto the next generation of scientists. 

I would also like to give $500 to Achievement First Public Charter Schools of New Haven. Since I have been given the opportunity to study in New Haven, I would like to begin giving back to that community. 

Again, I greatly appreciate the opportunity to participate in Austin's 12 days of Christmas, this means so much to me.

Education

Technology Access Foundation $100

The Technology Access Foundation (TAF) provides access to technology and tech education to children in low-income and predominantly minority school districts. Through their work in school districts, as well as the
establishment of their TAF Academy, the program
is effectively working to reduce the color and income gap in technology and science education. I think that Austin would have approved of this organization, which demonstrates that all students, regardless of income or ethnicity, should have access to high-quality math and 
science education and an equal opportunity to pursue a STEM major in college, as he did.


Tech Trek by the American Association of University Women $100

In Austin’s college application essay, when asked to write about a person who made an impact on his life, he wrote about Laurie and her career as a scientist. Specifically, he said that she showed him the value of “scientific inquiry, expanding collective human knowledge in the process, while ensuring that the work can truly alter the lives of people for the better.” Given the persistent under-representation of women in the domains of science and technology, I think that he would support the efforts of the American Association of University Women. Specifically, the AAUW sponsors Tech Trek, a week-long science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) summer camp for rising eighth-grade girls. The camp is designed to develop girls’ interest, excitement, and self-confidence in STEM fields.
The curriculum was developed by women scientists, and attendees do hands-on experiments and workshops, see professional female role models in their instructors and visitors, and are provided the “college experience” during their time at camp, which increases their likelihood of attending college later on. Additionally, the camps are open to virtually everyone: there is a flat fee of $50 to attend. The donation will support Tech Trek at New Mexico Highlands University in Las Vegas, NM.


Nature

Big City Mountaineers $100

One of my favorite things to do with Austin on my visits to Albuquerque was to go hiking in the Sandias. Austin and I shared a love of nature and the natural world, and were lucky to have families, friends,and organizations that allowed us to experience the outdoors. With that
in mind, I chose to support Big City Mountaineers, a program that serves underrepresented urban youth through wilderness mentoring expeditions that seek to instill critical life skills. BCM partners with community-based youth organizations and work with over 1,000 adolescents annually. Additionally, BCM researches the effectiveness of their programs and has demonstrated an increase in participants’ likelihood of retention in school and a reduction in violence and drug use among participants.


Sierra Club: Inner City Outings $100

For the second year in a row, I chose to donate to the Inner City Outings program from the Sierra Club. I remember Austin saying that while he loved Chicago, he missed getting outside the city into nature. However, after he joined the Outdoor Adventure Club, which 
gave him the opportunity to explore the natural world outside of Chicago and make great friends in the process. This donation seeks to provide the same opportunity to children in urban areas who don’t normally get to explore the natural world.


Music

Austin and I shared a love of music and were both involved in music education at our schools, he in 
the orchestra with violin and me in band and choir. I know that these were valuable experiences for us in both development and appreciation for the arts. However, I am also aware that not all children have the opportunity to learn an instrument, or even have access to music 
education programs, like we did. Thus, I want to support organizations that sponsor music instruction programs and provide instruments in low-income schools and districts where it is most needed.


Education Through Music $100

Education
Through Music (ETM) is an organization that develops and supports music instruction programs in disadvantaged schools, which enhances students’ academic performance and development in long term partnerships with elementary and middle schools that lack the resources for school-wide 
music programs. ETA hires qualified music teachers, provides training, and encourages music and teaching faculty to work together to demonstrate the value of music education to student development and performance. The organization performs regular program assessments to ensure that they are meeting their goals and supporting their students.


The Harmony Project $100

The Harmony Project is a research-based nonprofit organization that sponsors music lessons and ensemble participation for underrepresented and low-income youth in Los Angeles. Their goals are to contribute to the healthy growth of children and communities through the study, practice, and performance of music, as well as to use music to bridge diverse communities. The program has targets at several levels: the children, who learn and 
perform music, their families, who support their children’s growth and development, and communities.


Animals

Austin and I both shared a great love for cats, especially our cats. On a couple of occasions I remember talking to him about the objective reasons why Misty was the best cat, while my primary allegiance was to Mojo. 
Additionally, we are both label-readers and put a great deal of thought into where our food comes from; I remember him patiently listening to me and being receptive to my decision to become “mostly vegetarian” for sustainability reasons. For this reason, I choose to devote $100 dollars to animal welfare at two levels: the first, local, to the Humane Society of Southern Arizona, an excellent provider of support for animals and the community in Tucson, AZ. The second, national, goes the the Humane Society of the United States, which researches and advocates for responsible animal farming practices and other animal welfare issues.


Humane Society of Southern Arizona $100

This year, the HSSAZ officially became a no-kill shelter, and expanded their services to care for more animals. Additionally, they created new programs including low-cost animal first aid classes (I took one this year). They also do extensive work with local communities with children’s programs and animal cruelty prevention.


The Humane Society of the United States $100

The HSUS is the largest and most effective animal welfare organization in the United States. Their efforts support not only the work of local humane societies, but also contribute to broader issues in animal welfare and advocacy. Specifically, they are a powerful provider of advocacy to combat animal cruelty including factory farming, the wildlife trade, puppy mills, and animal fighting.


Public Radio

On our visits to Albuquerque, one of our most common activities was sitting in the kitchen, with NPR always 
on in the background. I listen to public radio almost constantly (even during pledge drives), and I think that Austin and I both appreciate it as a source of unbiased, civil, and intellectual journalism that is available to anyone with a radio. Additionally, NPR is a provider of interesting programs including Radiolab, which provides a discourse on science that is engaging and, I’m sure, responsible for inspiring many young scientists. Thus, I devote a portion of my donations to KUNM, the local NPR affiliate in Albuquerque, and WNYC’s Radiolab.


KUNM $100

KUNM is a public radio station that broadcasts from the University of New Mexico, but also reaches smaller towns and rural areas in New Mexico. Listener support accounts for 50% of the station’s annual operating budget. KUNM airs programming from NPR and local programs, including the country’s only call-in show focusing on Native American issues, Native America Calling. (However, it does not yet host Radiolab, so hopefully we can ask for that on the donation form).


Radiolab $100

Radiolab describes itself as “a show about curiosity, where sound illuminates ideas, and the boundaries blur between science, philosophy, and human experience.” This sounds like something that Austin would have appreciated and supported, not to mention the fact that they occasionally devote episodes to the intersection of science and classical music.
Each episode focuses on a specific topic and investigates it from several different angles with thought experiments, stories, and interviews with researchers and reporters. The program’s award winning sound design adds to the awesomeness, and it sounds different than any 
other program on public radio. Not only does Radiolab provide programs that explore science and philosophy, they do it in a way that is engaging and accessible.

Mark M.

With your permission, I would like to direct the full sum towards the American Chemical Society’s Project SEED.  Austin always sought to make his passion for science accessible to others, and in this way, I like to think that he continues. - $1000

Sarah H. - Sierra Club, Inner City Outings - $200

Statement - “I remember Austin saying that while he loved Chicago, he missed getting outside the city into nature,...until he joined the UChicago Outdoor Adventure Club. Not all children have the opportunity or resources to explore the natural world. The Inner City Outings division of the Sierra Club sponsors outdoor excursions for urban children, including the Chicago division in Illinois. (Charity Navigator: 4 Stars)”

Elizabeth D. - Half to the Friends of the Chicago River - $250

Statement -  “A $250 donation is categorized as a “yellow-headed blackbird” donation, named for the lovely bird that comes here in the summer and needs healthy rivers, and that winters in New Mexico and surrounding states. Friends of the Chicago River mixes policy initiatives with volunteer opportunities with helping families and young people to have fun on the river and to understand its needs and the needs of the wetlands that surround rivers as natural habitats. The picture at the top of the homepage, with young people canoeing down a metropolitan river that is lined only with trees, speaks to Austin’s profound connection to nature and to adventure. He would have been in this canoe without a second thought.”

Isaac -The National Forest Foundation - $333

Statement - “Austin always took pleasure in hiking and exploring wild places, so donating to a wilderness preservation nonprofit makes perfect sense. The National Forest Foundation appeals to me most out of all the wilderness preservation organizations because any donation will lead directly to the planting of trees, so that Austin’s love and legacy will be carried on in the growth and spread of a beautiful forest.”

Shari O. - Bear Hug Foundation - $250

Statement - “The second organization provides experiential and outdoor educational summer camp programs for underprivileged, at-risk and special needs children.  Connor's soul thrived in nature.  I want to know that happens for other children, too, when they may not be able to afford those opportunities.”

Isaac - - The Wilderness Society - $333

Statement - “Much like the National Forest Foundation, the Wilderness Society is committed to protecting and preserving the places of great natural beauty that Austin loved. I like the Wilderness Society because it allows for donations to be made in honor or in memory of someone.”

Paula, Adam, Dalia and Jason S. - Los Amigos de Valles Caldera - $500

Statement - “We wanted to find a worthy organization that combined some of Austin’s interests and hope that we have done so.  The Valles Caldera National Preserve Trust was established to protect the Valles Caldera in the Jemez Mountains.  A charitable organization, Los Amigos de Valles Caldera, was set up as a sister organization to the trust so that charitable contributions could be made to support their efforts.   They are dedicated to not only preserving the wildness of the caldera, but also to improving the landscape and involving and educating the public about the science behind what they do.  We know how much you have all enjoyed hiking in New Mexico, and how important science and education are to all of you, and thought that this might be a good way to honor Austin.” 

Kevin, Judy, Christopher and Stephen W. - $400

Statement - “ BTW, we could have come up with hundreds of deserving charities each with a clear nod towards Austin, however, $100 to each of these 5 coupled with all of the other donations, will be an amazing tribute to both Austin and his lasting impact on the world around him. I will never forget Laurie’s charge to “live a little larger” and we believe that this gesture will allow some small fulfillment of this request while honoring Austin’s memory.

The charities we selected are:
www.childrensmuseumofphoenix.org
www.mcdowellsonoran.org
www.phoenixsymphony.org
www.azscience.org

Isaac  - The International Genetically Engineered Machine Competition - $333

Statement - “iGEM combines aspects of the scholarly competitions Austin loved with biochemistry research in the development of a synthetic biological organism or molecular tool that serves a useful purpose. I think iGEM is a competition in which Austin would have enjoyed sharing his knowledge and expertise.”

Stephanie and Stuart L. - Albuquerque Academy - $150

Statement - “We would like to donate $150 to the Academy's financial assistance fund so that kids in New Mexico can have access to a really fine student culture and an education that can allow them to fulfill their aspirations. Austin found his amazing peer group at the Academy when he was young, as are so many students in Albuquerque. We feel so fortunate to teach kids like Austin.”

Shari O. - Opportunity Music Project - $250

Statement - “The Opportunity Music Project provide free music lessons to children in inner cities whose families cannot afford them.  They attempt to change lives of kids who are most at risk by helping them discover the gift of music and their abilities.  Since this was an area that was near to both our sons' souls, I would like to see some funds go there.  Connor was a gifted composer, and I would enjoy knowing that perhaps another child's gifts could be discovered who would otherwise never be exposed to the world of music.”

Stephanie and Stuart L. - Outpost Performance Space - $150

Statement - “Second, we would like to give $150 to the Outpost performance Space.  Tom Guralnick brings world class music to Albuquerque, enriching our city, and he is also deeply committed to creating educational and performance opportunities for young musicians.  We believe that his vision is one that Austin shared.”

Jeremy S. - Santa Fe Art Institute - $250

Charity Statement - “SFAI takes as its mission an exploration of the intersections of contemporary art and society. By bringing together prominent individuals and institutions in the arts, sciences, and humanities, SFAI enlivens local, national, and international discourse through residencies, lectures, workshops, publications, exhibitions, and educational and outreach programming. Nurturing artists and providing a stimulating, creative atmosphere for their work serves society in an essential way and gives artists the support necessary to take risks and explore possibilities. For young people, the arts allow creativity and innovation to be valued along with the traditional skills for learning.”

Sarah H. - PACA: Kitty City - $200

Statement - Because Austin loved Misty so much, it seems fitting to honor the place from that brought her to your family. Additionally, it benefits a local no-kill shelter in Albuquerque.”

Mark H. and Susan S.  Greenhill Humane Society  $ 125

Charity Statement - “Greenhill Humane Society, SPCA will provide safe shelter for animals in transition, serve as advocates for animals and their people, work to end animal overpopulation and educate the public about compassion and responsibility towards all animals.” 

Talia A. - TAPS (Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors) - $500

Statement - “Something that is very near and dear to my heart are all the soldiers that have given the ultimate sacrifice for our safety. I don't know the exact name of the charity, but I do know they help families that have lost a loved one, and Im sure Greg, that you could find it with all the resources that you have. My Dad was a veteran and I was always proud as he was of his service to our country. Thank you so much for allowing me to take part in this wonderful thing that you are doing in honor of your wonderful son & brother.”

Stephanie and Stuart L. - Think New Mexico - $200

Statement - “Lastly, we are enthusiastic supporters of Think New Mexico, a non-partisan, results-oriented nonprofit that takes on one project at a time to improve life in New Mexico.  They have been really successful over the years they have been in existence. Some of their projects have included helping to repeal the sales tax on food, which hits the poor unfairly and currently they are working to offer creative and practical ways to spur job creation in our state.  They also have a terrific  intern program, and several AA alums have earned that opportunity.  We would like to donate 200 of our allotment to this organization.”

expense and care of his dogs, to have some funding to continue that good work as long as he chooses to do so, and for him to know that others are grateful for his presence in Chicago and willingness to help others when all other help has failed.  I have a son who just started college in Chicago who also roams throughout the downtown and Chicago area at all hours of the day and night.  I pray that I never need to contact Mr. Larson, but it is good to know that Mr. Larson is out there and willing to help families who are desperate to find any information about their loved ones.”

Sheila and Jim H. - Captain Dexter fund - $250

Statement - "We'd love to see half of our donation to help Mr. Larson and Captain Dexter continue to do their fine work."

Cath - Mr. Larson and Captain Dexter - $200 

Statement - "Finally, I simply cannot forget the work of Robert T Larson and Captain Dexter. I still read his posts and am humbled at the capacity and drive he has to assist people who have lost a loved one."

Marie W. - Captain Dexter fund - $50

Statemet - "Just wanted to thank you so much for your work in general, and specifically for what you did for the Hudson-Lapore family this past June. All the best"

Because I share Austin's interest in science, I have chosen to donate to PATH, a medical research organization based here in Seattle.  PATH is involved in important research that has changed the lives of many people in resource-limited countries, so I think Austin would approve!”

Cath B. - Alder Hey Children’s Hospital - $400

Statement - “You know about the incredibly difficult initial months Jon had when Alex was first born - and if it was not for the dedication and determination of the staff at the hospital he would not have made it. So I would like to make my first pledge to Alder Hey Children's Hospital (the busiest children's hospital in the UK) who are currently fundraising to build a new site.”

Laura and Isobel - Partners in Health  - $500  

Statement - “The other program Isobel likes and has raised money for in the past is Partners in Health.  They go to Haiti and Africa and do all kinds of really good work.  The founder of that outfit in an amazing doctor, Paul Farmer,  who was the subject of a book by Tracy Kidder called Mountains Beyond Mountains about his work in Haiti.”

Cath B. - Nordoff Robbins Music Charity - $400

Statement - “My second pledge is to the Nordoff Robbins music charity. Nordoff Robbins is a music charity dedicated to transforming the lives of vulnerable children and adults. They help a range of people with a range of challenges such as autism, dementia, mental health problems, stroke, brain injury, depression and life-threatening or terminal illnesses, such as cancer. All of the people they help have one uniting factor - music dramatically improves their quality of life.

I thought this was a fitting tribute to Austin's love of music. ”

homeless shelter providing meals, safe shelter, clothing, social services and the restorative message of God’s love for homeless men, women and children of the Eugene and Lane County communities. “

Mark H. and Susan S.  - $125 - Food for Lane County
Kristopher K. - $250 - Food for Lane County

Charity Statement - “FOOD for Lane County is a private, 501(c)(3) nonprofit food bank founded in 1984 and dedicated to eliminating hunger by creating access to food. We accomplish this by soliciting, collecting, rescuing, growing, preparing and packaging food for distribution through a network of more than 100 social service agencies and programs; through public awareness, education and community advocacy; and through programs designed to improve the ability of low-income individuals to maintain an adequate supply of wholesome, nutritious food. These programs include emergency food boxes, shelters, meal sites, rehabilitation facilities, nutrition education, gleaning and community gardens. We serve a diverse population of people living on limited incomes including children, families, seniors and single adults.”

Kristopher K. - $250 - Miriam's Kitchen in Washington, DC

Statement - “They do an awful lot with a little and there are a lot of hungry people in the streets of DC.”

Sheila and Jim H. - Guide Dogs for the Blind - $250

Charity Statement - “Guide Dogs for the Blind is more than an industry-leading guide dog school; we are a passionate community that serves the visually impaired. With exceptional client services and a robust network of trainers, puppy raisers, donors and volunteers, we prepare highly qualified guide dogs to serve and empower individuals who are blind or have low vision. All of our services are provided free of charge; we receive no government funding.”

Nicole O. - Ronald McDonald foundation - $500

Statement - “I have been thinking of a donation location since your email.  One would think my first suggestion would be for cancer research, however I am not sure how much I support that.  Sometimes you have to wonder how much of it is business.  For 3 years we did Relay for Life and then realized the $10,000 we raised would barely even put a dent in the CEO’s million dollar salary and less than 1% went to childhood cancer research.  My thoughts then tried to find some common ground between Austin and my daughter.  I was hoping to find a charity that supported young adults in someway that seemed meaningful to the both of them.   So my search was to find a charity that targeted a young adult or teenage group to encourage them to become more confident in who they are.  Knowing little of Austin, it was all I could think of.   I couldn’t find a charity that I felt confident with in that respect.  So then I thought of my son and Aidan and wondered if there was a charity out there that supported “surviving siblings”, I did find some, but again, nothing I felt good about.  My thoughts then went to “who helped us.”  Our community was amazing with support.  It seemed the entire town gathered around us with love her entire sickness and passing.  I believe I read somewhere that the same happened for your family.  I really wasn’t sure how to incorporate all that into finding the right charity, but that was the most significant help in the entire nightmare.  The one place that helped us the entire time we were in Boston was “The Ronald McDonald House”.  I know they have been a significant help to many families with sick children. So, although I really wanted to find the charity that would represent both their lives, the Ronald McDonald foundation is what I feel the strongest about.  Thank you for including me in this, I feel Austin’s light shining in me by being a part of his “12 Days of Christmas” (Thinking of his smile!)”

Claudia F. - $250 - Red Cross

Charity Statement - “The American Red Cross exists to provide compassionate care to those in need. Our network of generous donors, volunteers and employees share a mission of preventing and relieving suffering, here at home and around the world, through five key service areas: disaster relief, supporting military families, livesaving blood, health and safety services and international services”.

Clauria F. - $250 - Unicef.org (3X Christmas campaign made this a $750 donation)

Statement - “UNICEF is the driving force that helps build a world where the rights of every child are realized. We have the global authority to influence decision-makers, and the variety of partners at grassroots level to turn the most innovative ideas into reality.  That makes us unique among world organizations, and unique among those working with the young.

We believe that nurturing and caring for children are the cornerstones of human progress.  UNICEF was created with this purpose in mind – to work with others to overcome the obstacles that poverty, violence, disease and discrimination place in a child’s path.  We believe that we can, together, advance the cause of humanity.

We advocate for measures to give children the best start in life, because proper care at the youngest age forms the strongest foundation for a person’s future.

We promote girls’ education – ensuring that they complete primary education as a minimum – because it benefits all children, both girls and boys. Girls who are educated grow up to become better thinkers, better citizens, and better parents to their own children.

We act so that all children are immunized against common childhood diseases, and are well nourished, because it is wrong for a child to suffer or die from a preventable illness.”