DoD Students-Rivera Twins Graduation

These two young ladies came to be stationed at Aviano AFB in Italy as 16 year old girls.  Since leaving Chicago, they have been raised by their older brother, who was only 22 himself at the time.  He is active duty, serving in the Army, and has put his whole heart and energy into providing structure, character and  encouraging goals while supporting them on a young enlisted salary alone. 

Being a military brat is hard enough, but add to this that they moved to a new country, needed to adjust to both military and Italian cultures, a new high school, a new family dynamic and even a new language. Not only did the girls overcome so much, but with hard work and dedication, they also lost over 45 lbs each in the process. 

I can only imagine the tears and sweat these three awesome kids have put into making it, and now... it's time for graduation! They are 18 now and big brother is 24.  After overcoming so much, they will not be able to celebrate their amazing accomplishments like their peers due to the pandemic. 

We have put this together to give them the kick-off such a deserving and hard working family truly deserves. Thank you for helping out and pass the link along! 

Funds will be dispersed to the young ladies a week prior to graduation  to be used at their discretion (for needs, clothes, class ring? or moving costs... I want them to be able to decide).