Spirit Series

“Intelligence plus character — that is the goal of true education.”
— Martin Luther King Jr.

Dr. King believed that education was not only about knowledge, but about shaping moral responsibility, empathy, and courage. His vision challenged generations to think deeply, act justly, and care for one another — especially in moments when doing so is not easy.

Today, we honor his life, his words, and his enduring commitment to justice through learning.

Today we celebrate Juneteenth by remembering history and honoring all those who risked their lives in the struggle against slavery. Their courage reminds us how much is possible when we tap the indomitable power of the human spirit. Pictured are Quilt squares created by 4th grade students at Garden Grove Elementary for their performance of “Freedom Train” on June 5, 2025.

Today we celebrate Juneteenth by remembering history and honoring all those who risked their lives in the struggle against slavery. Their courage reminds us how much is possible when we tap the indomitable power of the human spirit. For an interesting read, that’s inspiring us today, we invite you to check out this article from NPR.

On Juneteenth, she celebrates the role quilts may have played in Underground Railroad Edith Edmunds, who is 99 years old, the art of quilt making is inextricably linked to the Black struggle for freedom. That's why she plans to be sewing Thursday on Juneteenth.

“No amount of regret changes the past. No amount of anxiety changes the future. But any amount of gratitude changes the present.” — Glennon Doyle

At this time of thankfulness especially, but truly everyday, we at SPIRIT SERIES are grateful to the many program friends, donors, partner teachers, and school communities, who help make our work possible. And we owe a deep debt of gratitude to the wisdom heroes featured in the SERIES, for the inspiring lessons their lives teach us.
Wishing you and yours a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Dear Supporters and Friends,

Our annual 707 Charity Poker Tournament will be held on the evening of October 16th at the historic Beverly Hills home of Board Chair Bill Fay.

We’d love for you to join us—in person...or for our Online Auction. It promises to be our best 707 ever, with great prizes for our winners and some amazing Auction items on offer.

You can register and buy your ticket online by clicking the link below. Or, if you can’t make it, join us anytime between now and then with your bid! All proceeds help bring SPIRIT SERIES to students across Los Angeles and beyond.

Many thanks for your support!
Leslie & Richard

707 Poker Tournament '24 | ClickBid Mobile Bidding ClickBid Mobile Bidding Silent Auction for 707 Poker Tournament '24. Smartphone bidding web application.

Our founder, Richard Strauss, shares his moving story of loss, resilience, and how the passing of his first wife led to the creation of SPIRIT SERIES. From navigating single fatherhood to helping over 65,000 students nationwide, Richard's journey highlights the importance of storytelling and community in transforming lives. Read his inspiring Newsweek article on how personal tragedy became a mission to empower and guide young people through a safe passage into adulthood.

I lost my first wife and was a single dad—then found my life's work I felt Molly yearning for answers: Why did this happen to Mom? What did I do to deserve it? Does anything make sense in the world?