From January 15th to June 4th, I’ll be taking part in an international training and service program beginning in Ensenada Mexico . While the program is faith-based, its focus is strongly rooted in discipline, leadership development, and hands-on community support.

I’m stepping away from what’s familiar because I want clarity, direction, and growth. I’ve found that real change happens when distractions are stripped away and effort becomes intentional. This program provides an environment built around hard work, accountability, and learning how to serve others well.

The program begins with a three-month education phase focused on leadership, teamwork, cross-cultural understanding, and personal discipline, followed by a two-month service phase. During that time, teams support existing community efforts—working with youth, teaching English, assisting with service projects, and helping local organizations and churches where needed.

My desire to do this kind of work comes from experience. I’ve spent years working with my local community league and volunteered full-time for two summers at Birch Bay Ranch, where I helped create meaningful experiences for kids through mentorship, teamwork, and encouragement. I’ve learned that I connect well with people, stay calm under pressure, and genuinely enjoy helping others grow.

I am also legally blind, which has shaped how I move through the world. It’s taught me resilience, adaptability, and persistence, and it’s reinforced my willingness to do unglamorous work and show up consistently, even when things are difficult.

The total cost of the program is $11,000 CAD. I’ve already raised $5,000 CAD, covering the training phase, and I now have $6,000 CAD left to raise by January 31st.

If you choose to support this Journey, I’ll be sharing updates along the way on Instagram at @zachs_ywam, so you can follow the journey and the impact being made.

I’m so appreciative of everyone ho has donated so far, I wouldn’t be able to do any of this without the help from the people around me. I know how high the expectations are with every dollar donated and I plan to go above and beyond every single one. It means so much to me to know that I have the support far and wide to go out into the world and help others.