To Whom It May Concern:

Violence, drugs, and alcohol are an ever growing concern for our youth of today. My name is Anita Lambert, and I have been touched by these issues on a very personal level.

My nephew, Eric Olsen, was brutally beaten to death in May of 2007. His story is that of hatred, drugs, and alcohol. It took Eric a few days to succumb to the injuries he sustained in his beating. In that time I spent many hours with him. The time I spent with my nephew gave me the insight that someday I had to share his story. His death would not all be for not.

I feel so strongly about sharing Eric?s story because I do not want any family to go through the horror of what my family has had to endure. If I could even reach one person and perhaps change their outlook on the value of life perhaps it will make a difference.

With the help of my children I have set up a blog: www.voiceofreasonbyanita.com. The naming is very appropriate because Eric is my reason and I need to use my voice to share his story. I only touch on Eric's story on my blog. I would really love the opportunity to speak with youth and share on a personal level.

My presentation is about forty five minutes. I am willing to answer questions and interact with youth. If it fits into the needs of your youth I would also get their ideas on how they can be part of the solution to stop the violence and substance abuse. My presentation can be tailored to your needs. Because of the extreme violence of Eric?s death I do not think that my story is appropriate for youth grade eight and under.

Please be assured that I am not seeking vengeance when I speak. I am trying to promote an appreciation for life, responsibility for ones actions, and show youth the ramifications of violence, drugs, and alcohol. I also teach the power of forgiveness. I am doing this through my dedication of sharing Eric?s story, my book, "Forgiving Murder", my blog, I volunteer within the schools, I have facilitated in the Challenge Day program in my community, my door is open to the youth in my community, I was the previous secretary on the Clearwater Community Policing Advisory Committee and I serve on the Rocky and District Victim Services Board as Board Chair.

I would be very grateful if you would consider allowing me to reach the youth of your area. Please feel free to contact me at the above telephone number or email address. Also, please feel free to log on to my website. It will give you insight on where my heart is on this matter. Feel free to contact Alana Routhier at arouthier@chinooksedge.ab.ca or 403-887-2412 for a reference.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Anita Lambert