The Modesto Project: Empowering Communities Through Nano Funds  

My name is Eric Newman, a 9th-grade student—and yes, Nicole’s twin brother! I’ve been an active member of the Newman Global Initiative (NGI) since I was nine, and over the years, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with remarkable organizations and individuals. Now, in May 2025, I’m thrilled to share a new endeavor I’ve been …

Letter From Our Founder: Progress and Partnership

As 2024 enters its final stretch, we’re filled with a mix of gratitude and optimism. The generosity and passion of our supporters, both new and long-standing, continue to amaze us. It’s this shared commitment that allows us to remain dedicated in our pursuit of micro-impact initiatives that truly uplift communities. Our work with Inspira in …

Battling the Reading Gap: Project Butterfly Takes Flight

Reading struggles in early grades are more prevalent than we often acknowledge. A significant portion, around 20-30%, of young learners grapple with reading difficulties. Recognizing the urgency of this issue, my teammate Matthew Newman and I embarked on a journey to make a difference. Over 18 months ago, the concept of “Project Butterfly,” a free …