Darren's huge opportunity...

A letter from Darren:

Dear Readers, 09/09/2013
My name is Darren Layton; I am sixteen years old which makes me the oldest out of four children. I have two younger brothers who are thirteen and eight, and a younger sister who is five. We reside in Weidman, Michigan with our mom and step-dad. We have lived in Michigan most of my life. For as long as I can remember my mom has struggled to provide for us. Jobs are scarce in the area we live which has made it hard for my mom, step-dad and me to find work. We all work extremely hard as a team to make ends meet and to ensure we have what we need to survive. Even though times can be tough, I am proud to say we are happy and our home is filled with love.
My mom has always told me there are five things that are most important in life and I need to achieve them in a specific order; first is get an education, second is to pursue a career, third is to purchase a vehicle, fourth comes purchasing a house, and finally add a wife and kids to my life if I choose to do so. Right now I am getting my education at Chippewa Hills High School. I have struggled academically and although I may not always achieve the best grades I will get my high school diploma no matter what it takes. One thing for certain is that I want a career that will compliment the skills I already possess. My strengths are my ability to protect others and survive. I get those traits from my mom who has always taught me how to survive with little to no resources. Being Protective is something that has been engrained in me since I was little. I want to protect my family, friends, and my country.
Therefore, I have turned my interest into a possible career in national security. It is important for me to start focusing on my career now instead of waiting until I am done with high school. Recently, an opportunity presented itself; I have been nominated to go to the nation's capitol for a six day forum that will introduce me to all the possible careers I can pursue in national security. While I am in the nation's capitol I will be representing my high school as well as the entire state of Michigan. Along with learning about possible careers in national security I will also be visiting facilities such as foreign embassies, policy centers, and military facilities. Another most awesome thing is I will meet with top policy makers and experts in the field of national security. Finally, this also offers scholarship opportunities as well as a great feature for my resume.
Why am I reading about Darren Layton is probably your main question right now. Let me explain; as everyone can guess this opportunity is not free. I cannot expect a free ride. I must give some in order to get some. I do not expect anything for free in life. My mom, step-dad and I have put our heads together and are trying to come up with creative ways to raise the money for me to attend this program. The deposit to hold my seat for the program is due by October 25^th, in the amount of $600.00. The total amount needed is $2000.00. I am determined not to let an educational opportunity of this magnitude pass me by. Bottom line is we cannot afford it all on our own and we are asking for help with the cost in order for me to attend this program. My plan to raise some of the money is to reach out and ask family, friends, and people of the community. I shovel snow in the winter and work other miscellaneous jobs. We are willing to work for any money that is contributed. Our hope is that a little help from a lot of people will raise enough for me to be able to make the trip to Washington D.C. Hopefully, knowing that someone as determined and devoted as I am will soon be protecting your families and our country makes helping worthwhile to you. If there are any questions please contact us via the information provided so we can provide you the answers to your questions and more extensive details in regard to the trip.
Sincerely,
Darren Layton