My son Colin is 14 years old, and at the age of three, we learned he was autistic. As a mother, it was difficult to hear, but I was determined to give him every opportunity to thrive. We found the best therapists, welcomed them into our home, and traveled three days a week to Fox Therapy in Richmond, Virginia for years. When Colin started school, he could barely say five words, but with the support of Thomas Jefferson Elementary, Louisa County Middle School, and his loving family, he has achieved so much more than we ever imagined.

Colin has managed to carry straight A’s throughout middle school and is now at the top of his class. He is eager to learn and always strives for excellence. Today, we received an envelope from the National Student Leadership Conference (NSLC), inviting Colin to represent his school this summer. The program will take place at Georgetown University, where he will study Political Action & Public Policy. Upon completion, he will receive a letter of recommendation, an academic transcript, a certificate of achievement, and even earn college credits from American University.

We are incredibly proud of Colin and want to give him every chance to succeed. The tuition and stay for this program is a significant expense, and we are reaching out to our friends, family, and community for help. Every donation, no matter the size, brings Colin one step closer to this life-changing opportunity. Thank you for believing in him and supporting his dreams.