I am trying to raise money to support a good friend who is struggling with a lot of things out of his control. Things have been unimaginably hard for him. He is changing his entire life and moving from Florida to Alaska—he has a job in Alaska and just needs to get there and get set up! We are hoping to get him enough to get him to his first paycheck and to help him get situated. Any little bit helps!

Here's what Ellis has to say:

"I’m a 27-year-old AuDHD (neurodivergent) adult currently staying in a shelter after leaving a long period of unstable and unsafe living situations, including domestic violence situations. I’m adopted, and I grew up in a transracial adoption (my parents are white and I am Black). Over time, I experienced racial remarks and harmful behavior that led me to make the decision to leave.

Over the past few months, I’ve been bouncing around between different houses and environments, often living with people I didn’t fully know. Because I lacked stability and independence, I kept my head down and stayed in those situations even when they weren’t healthy for me. Eventually, I ended up in a shelter, where I’ve been for about a week. I currently have food and safety here, which I’m grateful for, but I’m working toward building real independence.

During this time, I’ve applied to over 45 jobs across the local area and nationwide. I’ve recently been offered a job in False Pass, Alaska working with Silver Bay Seafoods as a seafood processor. The work is physically demanding, but the pay is more than I’ve ever earned in my life, and it represents an incredible opportunity for me to gain independence and start a completely new chapter.

This year, I’ve been doing a lot of self-reflection. My neurodivergence has made it difficult at times to maintain stable and healthy relationships, and I’ve been actively working on improving my communication, emotional regulation, and self-awareness. I’ve also started surrounding myself with more emotionally intelligent and supportive people like Luke, Tori, and others who have been helping me grow.

I am extremely motivated, ambitious, and determined to change my life. When someone has essentially been surviving with just a duffle bag, that becomes their whole world—but I am ready to change that.

Living in a shelter is not where I want to stay long-term, but it has given me safety, food, and a moment to reset. For the first time in a while, I feel a sense of clarity and freedom to be myself without judgment.

This Alaska opportunity is a real turning point for me, but I need support to make it happen.

The funds will help me cover:

-Travel to Alaska

-Cold-weather work clothing and gear (boots, thermals, jacket, etc.)

-Hygiene products and basic necessities

-Initial setup costs to start work safely and prepared

Any support, whether financial or simply sharing this fundraiser, would mean a great deal to me as I take this step toward stability, independence, and a new life."