Help Send Jacob to Biot, France

My name is Jacob Willcox. This summer, I’ll be traveling to Tacoma’s Sister City Biot, France. I will be representing Hilltop Artists in the third installment of the Student Ambassador Program. I will learn from an immensely train and skilled glass artist, Antoine Pierini and I am beyond thrilled for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

When I was 10 my brother and his friends joined Hilltop Artist’s Glassblowing Program; I could not wait to join the program. I was envious of the glass they were making, but for me to join I had to be 12 years old. I turned of age at the beginning of my 6th grade year and I was accepted to join the after school glassblowing program at Jason Lee Middle School. I was so passionate about glassblowing that my parents transferred me from the private school, I had attended all my life, as well as many generations of my family had attended. I then moved to Jason Lee for 7th and 8th grade. This switch really helped me obtain more experience with glass and get me to where I am today.

By becoming a student at Jason Lee, I could take Glassblowing as a class during the school day and also do the after school program. When I made the transition from middle school into high school, I was offered a position on the production team. I gladly accepted and have now been a member of the Hilltop Artists Production team for three years. I have worked very hard at my glassblowing skills and made many memories and friends over the last five and half years in the Hilltop Artists program. As I am nearing the end of high school experience I would like to continue my glassblowing into college and hopefully become a skilled glass artist and give back to the community.

I am here to ask for your help.

A few local organizations and community members have generously covered some of my travel costs already, but I am still $1,500 short. Your donation, in any amount, will help cover my flights, meals, and other travel expenses. I also have some exciting GoFundMe rewards below you might be interested in.

Thank you for your gift. You are helping me achieve my dreams!

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