About Us
See Our GiftsOverview
In a Perfect World is a 501c3 organization dedicated to the empowerment of youth around the world. We believe that when we give children the platform and experience to allow their dreams, ideas, and thoughts to be heard and shared, their innate desire for ‘a perfect world’ can and will lead to breakthrough measures that could significantly change the outlook of the future!
Mission
We inspire and empower compassionate, socially conscious, responsible, leaders.
History
In a Perfect World was founded by Manuela Testolini in 2005. Manuela's desire to engage in social justice work grew during her studies at York University in Toronto, where she earned a degree in Law and Sociology. Through her course work and volunteer experiences, she saw firsthand the injustices and inadequacies in the judicial system. This experience led her to champion many charitable causes and become actively involved with several non-profit organizations. As her involvement expanded, Manuela became more of a driving force behind many philanthropic projects, from food and clothing drives to music, art, and nutrition programs. Through the activities of her own foundation, and the continued support of many community groups, Manuela hopes to realize her passionate belief in the potential of children to change their futures and our world.
Program
Youth Ambassadors -
Ambassadors offer young people a wonderful opportunity to serve as liaisons between community youth and the IAPW® Foundation, and actively represent their region for a one year term. Ambassadors are skilled volunteers responsible for keeping in contact with IAPW® alumni and coordinating projects to improve their community. The Ambassador Advisor, a member of the IAPW® staff is available for support for all Ambassadors. Ambassadors will work in a broad range of areas that include health, environment, gender, justice, and education. Youth are powerful advocates for any cause! The Ambassadors will encourage all young people to take action and make a difference.
Giving Tree -
Through our Giving Tree program, In a Perfect World supports community-based organizations and educators that implement innovative strategies and programs designed to provide children with the opportunity to express themselves about their needs, dreams and issues that impact their lives. Partners include Donors Choose & Free Arts for Abused Children.
REACH -
Rural Education and Community Harmony
Education empowers children to reach their fullest potential and secure a brighter future. Many children in rural communities of developing countries either cannot afford to attend school or attend rundown schools that are crowded and dark. IAPW is dedicated to helping disadvantaged children, their families, and their communities by constructing and renovating schools in developing countries. To fulfill this vision, IAPW has partnered with buildOn to build schools in developing countries like Mali & Haiti.
Impact
We achieve our mission by:
* Providing children the opportunities to express themselves artistically about their needs, dreams, and issues that impact their lives
* Supporting existing community-based organizations that implement innovative approaches and programs designed to (a) address these needs and issues, and (b) develop the type leadership in children consistent with our mission
* Bringing together community, corporate, and thought leaders, educators, and researchers to heighten the awareness of children’s views and seek their support to provide sustainable solutions to achieve this mission
* Recognizing extraordinary youth leaders for their outstanding and significant contribution to positive change in their community
Goals
* Completion of schools in Haiti & Mali
* Recruitment of new ambassadors
* 6 Ambassador community service projects
* $15K matching grant to Donors Choose
CEO
Manuela Testolini's desire to engage in social justice work grew during her studies at York University in Toronto, where she earned a degree in Law and Sociology. Through her course work and volunteer experiences, she saw firsthand the injustices and inadequacies in the judicial system. This experience led her to champion many charitable causes and become actively involved with several non-profit organizations. As her involvement expanded, Manuela became more of a driving force behind many philanthropic projects, from food and clothing drives to music, art, and nutrition programs. Through the activities of her own foundation, and the continued support of many community groups, Manuela hopes to realize her passionate belief in the potential of children to change their futures and our world.
Board
Norman Bailey
Manuela Testolini
Christine Onesky
Countries
Canada, Egypt, Mali, United States, Haiti
States
California, District of Columbia, Hawaii, Minnesota, New York
Contact
470 W. 78th Street
suit 220
Minneapolis, MN 55317
Phone: 9529346497
www.inaperfectworld.org
EIN: 20-4083846