Help Me Become a Social Worker and Break Cycles That I Know Too Well

My name is Kendra, and this year I was accepted into the Master of Social Work program at the University of Southern California. Being admitted into this program is one of the proudest moments of my life—but paying for it has been one of the most stressful challenges I’ve ever faced.

My journey here hasn’t been easy.

I grew up in a home where stability and safety weren’t guaranteed. Like many kids who end up in the foster care system, my childhood was shaped by uncertainty, trauma, and learning to grow up faster than I should have had to.

As a young adult, I became a mother and raised my child largely on my own. I navigated single motherhood while also dealing with an abusive relationship with my child’s father. There were times when survival—not dreams—was the priority.

Despite that, I never stopped believing that my experiences could someday help others.

Over the years I have worked with youth and families, and those experiences made something very clear to me: I want to dedicate my life to helping children and families who are facing the same struggles I once did.

That’s why I applied to graduate school to become a licensed clinical social worker.

When I opened my acceptance letter from USC, I cried. It felt like proof that everything I fought through actually meant something—that my story could become the foundation for helping others.

Unfortunately, financial barriers are now standing in the way.

Because of my credit history and financial circumstances as a single mother, I was denied a Graduate PLUS loan. FAFSA only approved me for $20,000, which doesn’t cover my tuition and basic living expenses while I’m in school.

I am determined to complete this program, but I need help bridging the gap.

This degree will allow me to:• Become a licensed clinical social worker• Work with children and families experiencing trauma• Support youth in foster care and those navigating difficult family systems• Help break cycles of abuse and instability that affect generations

I know what it feels like to be the kid who needs someone in their corner.

I want to be that person.

If you are able to donate—even a small amount—it would help me continue this journey and focus on becoming the social worker I have worked so hard to become.

If you can’t donate, sharing this fundraiser would mean just as much.

Thank you for believing in me and for helping turn a difficult past into a future where I can help others.