This is one of those times where a small act can make a big difference.

I’m sharing this on behalf of a close friend of mine. Our sons are also good friends, and I’ve had the chance to see firsthand the kind of father he is—present, caring, and deeply committed to his child. When I learned about what he’s going through, I felt strongly that he shouldn’t have to face it alone. So I encouraged him to reach out for support.

Right now, Charles needs help securing legal representation to keep his son close to the home, family, and community he has always known. I’ve asked him to share what’s happening in his own words:

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My name is Charles Peterson, and I’m facing the possibility that my son could be moved out of state—far away from me, his sister, and the rest of the family who loves him. I’m asking for help so I can fight to remain an active father in his life. My son, Colin, was born in 2015, and he has grown into an incredible kid who is just about to begin middle school. Being his father is the greatest privilege of my life. I have always done everything I can to be present for him, support him, and help guide him as he grows.

Recently, Colin’s mother informed me that she plans to move out of state and take him with her. This would remove him from the home, school, and community he has always known, and make it nearly impossible for me to remain the active father I have always tried to be. Our current custody agreement does not allow for this kind of move without legal review. To protect my parental rights and fight to keep my son close to the family who loves him, I need to hire an attorney. Legal representation is expensive, and previous legal challenges advocating for my son have already left me in debt. I simply cannot afford the full cost on my own, which is why I am asking for your help to continue showing up for him.

Every donation, no matter the amount, helps me take the next step toward protecting my relationship with my son. If you are able to contribute, I am deeply grateful. If donating isn’t possible, sharing this page would mean just as much. I am only seeking enough to cover the legal costs of this fight. Any funds remaining after this process will be donated to charity, so that this generosity can be passed on to someone else in need.

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Thank you for standing with a father who simply wants to continue showing up for his child and being part of his future.