Dara and I both grew up in Long Beach, but it wasn’t until we met through community service that I truly saw the kind of person he is. Dara has always been the one to show up for others—helping neighbors with groceries, checking in on friends, and working any job he can to support his family. Even when life hasn’t always shown up for him, he’s been there for his community.

Now, Dara is facing something unimaginable. After living in the US since he was just a year old, he’s being deported to Cambodia—a country he’s never known, where he doesn’t speak the language. His family came here seeking refuge, and now he’s being forced to start over in a place that’s completely foreign to him. The funds raised here will help Dara get on his feet: covering housing, food, transportation, fees for an ID, phone service, clothes, and other basic necessities as he begins this new chapter.

Dara isn’t asking for pity. He’s asking for a chance—a chance to rebuild his life from the ground up. If you’ve ever needed a second chance, or wished someone had given you one, you know how much this matters. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps Dara take one more step toward safety, stability, and dignity. Thank you for considering a donation to support him in this difficult time.