History

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STLF changing the world since 2003.

The Founding: September 18, 2003
Four college freshmen were up late, eating Top Ramen and Easy Mac. They were chatting and sharing about their lives, but most importantly--they were dreaming. That night, STLF and the Pay it Forward Tour was born.

Nearly each night after that, the students would meet in the early hours of the morning, brainstorming what a perfect world would be like--wouldn't it be awesome if stereotypes didn't exist? Wouldn't it be sweet if people believed in young people? Would it be cool to go on a cross-country road trip? And do service over spring break?

These teenagers set out to make a difference. And they have. Not alone, but through the commitment, support, and dedication of thousands of people. Never underestimate... anyone.

STLF Firsts and Milestones
Among countless days to celebrate, here are a few of the big ones:

• September 18, 2003 – STLF is born.
• October 17, 2003 – STLF officially a student organization at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities.
• March 7, 2004 – First official STLF event: Kindness Protest at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities.
• March 12-19, 2004 – First STLF Pay it Forward Tour out of University of Minnesota Twin Cities.  
• April, 2004 – First official STLF chapter at University of North Dakota.
• April 16-17, 2005 – First STLF Conference held at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities.
• May 2, 2005 – STLF officially incorporated as a non-profit.
• March 29, 2006 – STLF receives 501(c)(3) status as a tax exempt non-profit.
• March 29-April 2, 2006 – First STLF High School Pay it Forward Tour out of West Fargo High School. 
• June 25-30, 2006 – First STLF High School Leadership Camp at the University of Minnesota Crookston.
• December 1, 2006 – First STLF Board of Directors Meeting, and First STLF gala.
• February 11, 2007 – Everything Intangible, STLF’s Pay it Forward Tour documentary World Premiere shows in North Dakota, downtown at the Fargo Theatre.