A Startup for My Dad, Willy – A Dream Worth Building

A Tour Business for My Dad, Willy – A Life of Sacrifice, A Dream Worth Building

Hi, my name is Alicia, and this is the most personal thing I’ve ever written.

I’m starting this fundraiser for someone who means the world to me—my father, Larkland “Willy” Williams. He’s 72 years old, and after a lifetime of working hard, lifting others up, and never asking for anything in return, I want to help him build something that’s finally his: a small tour business, built on heart, heritage, and hope.

My dad has lived a life many wouldn’t survive. He was born in the hills of St. Mary, Jamaica, where opportunities were scarce and education wasn’t guaranteed. He never got to go to school as a child. He couldn't read or write—but that didn’t stop him. In his twenties, while working to support himself and his family, he joined Jamaica’s adult literacy program (JAMAL). He taught himself to read. Then to write. Then to speak German and Spanish—just so he could better connect with tourists.

People called him “Boasty Boy” because he was so proud to learn. And he should have been.

Over the years, my father worked as a carpenter, busboy, waiter, cruise ship worker—and eventually found his calling as a tour guide in Montego Bay. He became more than a guide. He became a storyteller. An ambassador for Jamaica. A friend to thousands of visitors. People still ask for him by name when they return.

But here's the part most people never saw:

He didn’t just give at work—he gave at home.

Our house was always full. People came to stay with us—people down on their luck, needing a place to land. Some stayed for weeks, some for months. My dad never turned anyone away. He shared what little we had with open hands and an open heart. So many faces passed through our home, I can’t even remember them all. And most of them? They never looked back. They never said thank you. They took the kindness, and when they left, they just... left.

But my father never stopped helping. Never once complained. That’s just who he is.

Why I’m Asking for Your Help:

He’s now 72. He’s still working when he can, but not for himself. He’s spent a lifetime building other people’s dreams—it’s time he gets to build his own.

I want to help him start a small, independent tour company. Something simple. Something proud. Something that finally belongs to him.

To get started, we need help covering:

A dependable tour-ready Bus.

Business Licensing, insurance and safety gear

A basic website and booking system

Marketing and branding support

This Isn’t Just a Business. It’s a Legacy.

My dad never had much, but he gave like he had everything. He gave to strangers, to neighbors, to friends who became family and to family who became strangers. He gave without keeping count. Without expectations.

He’s not asking for this. But I am. Because he deserves it.

He deserves to see his name on something he built. He deserves to finish life with dignity, pride, and the peace that comes from finally being the one who receives, just once.

If you’ve ever had someone in your life who gave you everything—quietly, humbly—please consider helping me give back to mine.

Even the smallest donation or a simple share can help make this dream real.

From the bottom of my heart

Alicia