Help with sponsorship letter

I am trying to get a sponsorship from a few different companies. It is for me personally. I am trying to attend a study abroad program in Britain for a month with my school. I will be unable to attend if I don't get some financial help. This is a letter that I just started working on. This is a first time for me, so I realize that this letter will need a lot of work. Please let me know of anything that I can do to make it better. Here is my email. Email Removed

(Company Name)
(Person's Name)
(Company Address)
03/14/2010
Dear (Person's Name),
I have been given an opportunity of a lifetime. I have been accepted into Mesa Community College's Britain Education Abroad program; this program allows me to study in Britain for a month. Not only will I be able to learn about the history, art, and culture of Britain, but I will also be able to participate in the program's trip to Paris. However without the assistance of your company, I will be unable to participate in this once in a lifetime opportunity. In order to participate, I do need sponsorship. I am requesting that you consider becoming my sponsor.
I graduated from Collins College School of Design and Technology where I earned a Bachelor's degree in Visual Arts. I am currently attending Mesa Community College, where I am pursuing a new degree in Film. I am still using the skills that I learned with my degree; however I have finally realized my passion. Film will allow me to express my creativity and to reach a wide audience. During my time in Britain, I will be taking two classes, which will both help me become a more unique and diverse filmmaker. The most important thing is that I will use this experience to meet new people from other cultures, as well as to expand my knowledge of the world.
Ever since I was a child, I have been interested in the fine arts. The timeless beauty and elegance that they can provide really inspires me and everything I do. Looking at another's art is like peering into their soul, even if it's just a glimpse. This education abroad program will provide me with the opportunity visit the Louvre, which is not only home to the greatest collection of art ever compiled, but has been a dream of mine since I was a child. Through this education abroad program I will finally get to experience it. I will have a video camera with me as well as my computer, so the trip will be documented and posted online. I will also be able to visit museums in London such as the British Museum, the Victoria and Albert, and the National Gallery. We are also going to visit many sites associated with films that have been made in and have featured Britain and France.
This trip is everything to me. If there is anything I can do to make this more beneficial for you or your company, I will be more than happy to accommodate. I would be extremely grateful for any money you would be able to provide. I am in need of only $3500 to make this dream come true. It is more than an educational trip; it is a trip that will build my very foundation as a person, and help me grow as a professional film maker. The experience for me as a student will be a once in a lifetime addition to my education. I greatly appreciate the time and consideration you are giving me, and I look forward to hearing from you. Listed below are my phone number, and my email address which are the best ways to contact me.

Sincerely,
Steve Fohey