Help Me Represent Missouri at FCCLA Nationals with LIFT

Hi, my name is Kheana, and I’ve been given the incredible opportunity to attend FCCLA Nationals in Orlando, Florida, from July 5–9 — and I’ll be competing in Public Policy Advocacy with a project that’s close to my heart: my student-led suicide prevention initiative, Life Is For Tomorrow (LIFT).

LIFT is all about reminding students that they’re not alone, their voice matters, and their life is worth living. What started as a local effort to bring awareness and support into schools has grown into something bigger — and now, I get to share it with students and leaders from across the country. I’ll be competing against about 100 other students, sharing the heart behind LIFT and advocating for real, lasting change in youth mental health policy.

Through LIFT, I’ve worked to bring hope, education, and awareness into schools — and now, I’m fighting for something even bigger: I’m advocating for suicide prevention education to become a mandatory part of Missouri’s school curriculum. Every student deserves access to the tools, knowledge, and support they need to stay safe and feel seen.

But I can’t do this alone. Between travel, lodging, registration, and meals, the costs of Nationals add up quickly. I’m hoping to raise some money to help cover these expenses and allow me to bring LIFT to a national stage.

This isn’t just a trip. It’s a chance to make noise for those who feel unheard. To stand for students who are struggling in silence. To show what’s possible when young people lead with compassion and courage. As a person of faith, I believe that God’s children should never feel unworthy of life — every person is made on purpose with a purpose, and every life holds immeasurable value.

Even a small donation makes a difference — and if you can’t donate right now, sharing this campaign with others means the world to me.

Thank you for believing in me, in this mission, and in the truth that Life Is For Tomorrow.

With all my heart,

Kheana Nelson

Founder of Life Is For Tomorrow (LIFT)